Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and with it will come one of the most beloved traditions: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s not just the giant balloons and floats making their way through New York City, but the sense of community and the excitement for the festive season. Yet, for those planning to attend this year's event, weather conditions could present some challenges.
Traditionally, the parade has been adaptable, celebrating rain or shine. This year, the predictions indicate there will be some rain, with the National Weather Service forecasting steady light rainfall throughout the day on November 28. According to meteorologist William Churchill, rain is expected to start early on Thanksgiving Day, with total accumulations estimated to reach over half-an-inch. Fortunately, he adds, the downpour will likely conclude around noon, coinciding with the parade's end. "We can say confidently it will be more than the average amount for Thanksgiving," Churchill said. This might cause attendees to wonder about the festivities—will balloons fly if there’s rain?
For parade enthusiasts, it's important to know this: rain won’t ground the iconic balloons. Wind, on the other hand, is another story. If sustained winds reach over 23 mph or gusts go beyond 35 mph, the regulations require them to stay tethered to the ground. Historically, since implementing these wind regulations back in 1997 after some incidents, the balloons have never been grounded due to high winds. Thankfully, the current forecast does not signal any major gusts this year, so spectators should be able to enjoy the sight of their favorite characters soaring above.
The anticipation is already building for the day's events, especially with the balloon inflation ceremony often being as exciting as the parade itself. This year's inflation event is scheduled for the day before the parade, on November 27. Starting at 1 PM and lasting until 8 PM, attendees can watch as the gigantic floats and character balloons are inflated—an event that's free and open to the public, minus the large backpacks or coolers due to security protocols.
For those planning to watch the balloons inflate, significant street closures around the area will be enforced starting early Wednesday morning. Key streets, such as 81st Street and 77th Street, will be closed from Central Park West to Columbus Avenue, beginning at 7 AM. By midday, additional road closures will come to affect many surrounding roads, ensuring safe access for pedestrians to view the iconic balloon characters come to life.
Fast forward to Thanksgiving Day and things really get festive! Formation for the parade kicks off bright and early at 8 AM, primarily at locations along West 77th and 81st Streets and Central Park West. The parade itself starts at 9 AM, running the traditional route down Central Park West and through several well-known locations like Columbus Circle and eventually dispersing around 7th Avenue. Organizers recommend public transportation since heavy traffic is expected and numerous streets will be inaccessible due to the event.
Speaking of accessibility, there’s some important advice for anyone wanting to enjoy the parade. Macy's has encouraged attendees to arrive dressed for the weather, which will feel rather chilly, especially considering the wind chill. Temperatures will hover between the 30s and 40s with the rain. Macy’s has even advised spectators against bringing umbrellas to keep everyone's view clear and unobstructed during the festivities.
One thing is clear: whether attendees experience light rain, chilly temperatures, or even the vibrant sight of balloons floating against gray skies, they will still be part of something special. The spirit of the parade lies not just with the weather, but the grandiosity of the floats, the joy of performances, and the jubilant atmosphere brought together by the thousands of spectators lining the streets. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade remains steadfast as one of the most cherished parts of the holiday, and no amount of rain can diminish the joy it brings to so many.
