Macy's Thanksgiving Parade: History, Route & More

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition that marks the start of the holiday season in the United States. Millions of people line the streets of New York City and millions more watch the parade on television. But what is the history of this iconic event? What is the parade route? And what can you expect to see at the parade?

History of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924, organized by Macy's employees. Many of the employees were first-generation immigrants, and they wanted to celebrate the American holiday with the kind of festivals they remembered from Europe. The first parade featured Macy's employees dressed as clowns, cowboys, and other characters, along with floats, bands, and live animals from the Central Park Zoo. It was an immediate success, drawing a crowd of over 250,000 people.

The parade has been held every year since 1924, except for a brief hiatus during World War II. During the war, the rubber and helium needed for the parade's giant balloons were needed for the war effort. The balloons were donated to the city as a scrap rubber source.

What to Expect

Today, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a much more elaborate affair than the first parade. It features giant character balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, performance groups, clowns, and celebrity appearances. The parade is broadcast live on television and watched by millions of people around the world.

Giant Character Balloons

One of the most iconic features of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is the giant character balloons. These balloons are often several stories tall and feature popular characters from movies, television, and comic books. Some of the most popular balloons include: — Japan Airlines Phone Number: Your Fast Track To JAL Support

• Snoopy
• Mickey Mouse
• Spider-Man
• Pikachu
• The Pillsbury Doughboy

The balloons are filled with helium and are held aloft by handlers who walk alongside the parade route. The balloons are a major attraction for children and adults alike.

Elaborate Floats

In addition to the giant balloons, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade also features elaborate floats. These floats are often decorated to depict scenes from movies, television shows, and Broadway musicals. The floats are often sponsored by major corporations and feature celebrities and performers.

Marching Bands

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade also features marching bands from across the country. These bands perform music throughout the parade route and add to the festive atmosphere.

Performance Groups

In addition to the marching bands, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade also features a variety of performance groups, including dancers, cheerleaders, and musical ensembles. These groups perform along the parade route and add to the entertainment. — Thunder Vs. Spurs: Player Stats And Matchup Analysis

Clowns

No Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade would be complete without clowns. Hundreds of clowns participate in the parade each year, entertaining the crowds with their antics.

Celebrity Appearances

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade often features celebrity appearances. Celebrities from movies, television, and music often ride on the floats or perform along the parade route.

Route

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade route is 2.5 miles long. The parade starts at 77th Street and Central Park West and travels south along Central Park West to Columbus Circle. At Columbus Circle, the parade turns east onto Central Park South and then south onto 6th Avenue. The parade continues south on 6th Avenue to 34th Street, where it turns west and ends in front of Macy's Herald Square.

Viewing the Parade

If you want to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in person, there are several things you should keep in mind:

• Get there early. The parade route fills up quickly, so you'll need to arrive early to get a good spot.
• Dress warmly. The parade is held in November, so it can be cold.
• Be prepared to stand for a long time. The parade route is 2.5 miles long, so you'll be standing for a while.
• Bring snacks and drinks. You'll want to stay hydrated and fed while you're waiting for the parade to start.
• Be patient. The parade can be crowded and chaotic, so you'll need to be patient.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What time does the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade start?

The parade officially kicks off at 9:00 AM EST and typically lasts for about three hours, concluding around noon.

Where is the best place to watch the parade?

Prime viewing spots are along Central Park West (between 77th and 59th Street) and 6th Avenue (between 59th and 38th Streets). However, these areas get crowded quickly, so arriving early is essential.

Can I bring chairs to the parade?

While bringing chairs might seem like a good idea, they are generally not allowed along the main parade route due to space limitations and safety concerns.

Are there any restrooms along the parade route?

Public restrooms can be scarce along the parade route. It's advisable to use restrooms before arriving or plan for nearby facilities.

What happens if it rains on Thanksgiving Day?

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade proceeds rain or shine! Only extreme weather conditions, such as very high winds, might cause modifications or cancellations for safety reasons. — Water Expansion On Freezing Compared To Other Substances

How are the giant balloons handled?

The giant balloons are handled by teams of trained volunteers, known as balloon handlers. They use ropes to guide the balloons along the parade route, ensuring they don't collide with buildings or other obstacles.

Is the parade televised?

Yes! The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a nationally televised event, broadcast live on NBC. You can also stream it online through various platforms.

Conclusion

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished tradition that brings joy and excitement to millions every year. From its humble beginnings in 1924 to the spectacular event it is today, the parade continues to capture the hearts of people of all ages. Whether you're watching from the streets of New York City or from the comfort of your home, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season. So gather your loved ones, tune in, and enjoy the magic of this iconic American celebration!