The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished holiday tradition, signaling the start of the festive season with its iconic giant balloons and spectacular performances. As the parade approaches its 100th anniversary, anticipation is building for this year’s event, promising 17 giant character balloons, 22 elaborate floats, and a star-studded lineup. If you’re wondering where to watch the Macy’s Day Parade, whether you’re in New York City or anywhere else in the world, here’s your comprehensive guide to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the magic.
When Does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Start?
For the second consecutive year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will commence at 8:30 a.m. across all time zones on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28th. This synchronized start time means viewers nationwide can experience the parade at the same relative hour, no matter where they are located. Whether you’re on the East Coast waking up early or on the West Coast enjoying a later breakfast, 8:30 a.m. is the time to tune in.
What TV Channel is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade On?
For those preferring traditional television, NBC is the official broadcast channel for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. You can access NBC through an antenna for over-the-air broadcast, or via cable and satellite television providers. Checking your local NBC listings will confirm the channel number in your area, ensuring you can easily find the parade coverage.
How to Stream the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Online
For cord-cutters and digital viewers, there are several options to stream the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade online. Peacock, NBC’s streaming service, will simulcast the entire parade live. This provides a convenient way to watch on your computers, tablets, and smartphones, allowing you to enjoy the parade from anywhere with an internet connection. Additionally, for Spanish-speaking audiences, Telemundo will offer a Spanish language simulcast of the parade. If you happen to miss the live broadcast, NBC will also air an encore telecast on Peacock starting at 2 p.m. ET/PT, giving you another chance to watch the festive spectacle.
Macy’s Parade Weather Forecast – Will it Affect Viewing?
The weather in New York City on Thanksgiving Day can be unpredictable. This year, forecasts suggest a possibility of rain with temperatures hovering in the upper 40s Fahrenheit, accompanied by clouds and winds around 10 mph. While Macy’s has confirmed the parade will proceed “rain or shine,” there are wind restrictions in place for the giant balloons. New York City regulations prohibit flying the full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph or if wind gusts surpass 35 mph. Keep an eye on local weather updates leading up to Thanksgiving Day for the most accurate forecast and any potential impacts on the balloon parade.
Who are the Performers at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is renowned for its spectacular lineup of performers, and this year is no exception. Prepare to be entertained by a dazzling array of talent, including Jennifer Hudson, the Grammy, Oscar, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning superstar. Joining her are global pop icon Kylie Minogue, and Tony, Grammy, and Emmy winner Billy Porter.
Beyond these headliners, the parade will feature appearances from reality TV personality Ariana Madix, Broadway star Idina Menzel, hip-hop artist T-Pain, members of the WNBA champion New York Liberty, and country duo Dan + Shay. The musical festivities continue with performances by The War and Treaty, Lea Salonga, Loud Luxury, The Temptations, Chlöe, Jimmy Fallon & The Roots, and Coco Jones. Actress Alison Brie will have the honor of kicking off the parade by cutting the ribbon.
Who are the Hosts of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Broadcast?
For viewers watching from home, the familiar and beloved trio from “TODAY” – Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker – will be hosting NBC’s television broadcast of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Their warm and engaging presence has become synonymous with the parade viewing experience for many families across the nation.
What’s New This Year at the Macy’s Parade?
Each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade introduces new elements to keep the spectacle fresh and exciting. This year, parade-goers can look forward to six new character balloons, including the debut of Minnie Mouse, “Extraordinary Noorah” with The Elf on the Shelf, Gabby from “Gabby’s Dollhouse,” Goku from ”Dragon Ball,” Marshall from “Paw Patrol,” and a brand-new Spider-Man balloon.
Adding to the float lineup are new creations from Disney Cruise Line, Haribo, “Wednesday” from Netflix, Universal Orlando Resorts, and “The Grannies Car” from BBC Studios’ “Bluey.” Nickelodeon and Paramount’s “Dora the Explorer” will be featured with both a float and a balloon. Food brand Rao’s will debut a float showcasing a pasta-themed knight and dragon battle, while The Bronx Zoo will celebrate its 125th anniversary with a float featuring a tiger, giraffe, zebra, and gorilla. Marching bands from across the country, representing states like Massachusetts, Indiana, and Texas, will also bring their musical talents to the parade route.
In conclusion, whether you plan to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on NBC, stream it on Peacock, or catch the Spanish simulcast on Telemundo, you have numerous options to witness this spectacular holiday event. With a fantastic lineup of performers, new balloons and floats, and the traditional charm of the parade, Thanksgiving Day promises to be filled with joy and entertainment. Happy watching!
