Thanksgiving Day is not just about turkey and stuffing; it’s also when thousands gather to witness one of America’s most cherished traditions—the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. This iconic event, which has been delighting audiences since 1924, will celebrate its 98th iteration this year, drawing millions of viewers around the country, whether they're watching from their living rooms or lining the streets of New York City.
The parade kicks off on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, at 8:30 AM ET/PT, with NBC airing its coverage live from the streets of Manhattan. Families often gather around their TVs, catching every vibrant float, impressive balloon, and exciting performance. For those eager to enjoy the parade, there are several options to tune in, including using popular streaming services like Sling TV, Fubo, and of course, Peacock, which will stream the event.
Notably, this year’s parade will feature six brand new balloons—from beloved characters like Minnie Mouse and Goku from Dragon Ball to the Elf on the Shelf. The new additions will join longtime favorites such as SpongeBob SquarePants and the Pillsbury Doughboy, making this year’s lineup even more exciting to watch.
One of the parade's highlights is its musical performances. This year, viewers will enjoy acts from celebrities like Billy Porter and Idina Menzel, alongside marching bands from across the country. The Radio City Rockettes will also contribute their classic flair, ensuring the energy remains high throughout the event.
For those who might miss the live airing, NBC will offer repeat coverage later at 2 PM ET the same day, alongside on-demand streaming through Peacock for late risers or those who want to relive the festivities at their leisure.
Historically, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has represented much more than holiday entertainment; it's become embedded in American culture. After years of evolution, from its original humble beginnings with just 250 participants and animals from the Central Park Zoo, the parade has transformed dramatically, now boasting elaborate floats and high-profile celebrity appearances.
Since 1946, the parade has been transmitted nationwide, showcasing everything from Broadway performances to elaborate winter scenes. It’s the first taste of the holiday season many look forward to, letting families share laughter and joy, if only for three glorious hours.
If you’re wondering how to catch the parade from anywhere, here’s the scoop. For those out of the traditional viewing regions, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is key to streaming NBC’s coverage. Among the various options available, NordVPN has earned praise for its reliability, making it easier to enjoy the parade globally.
Fortunately, the features don't stop there; viewers can anticipate plenty of surprises during the event, whether it be surprise celebrity appearances or unexpected musical guests. With this year’s excitement building up, many are left asking—will there be other surprises scattered throughout the parade?
So fire up those ovens and get ready to enjoy what has become synonymous with Thanksgiving Day itself—a full morning of awe-inspiring balloons, festive floats, and world-class entertainment. This is not just another Thanksgiving. It's Macy's turning up the holiday spirit on one of America’s most beloved traditions, and everyone is invited to join the celebration!