The 99th edition of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place on November 27, 2025, captivating audiences with a vibrant display of floats, music, and beloved characters. This annual event has transformed from a local celebration in New York City into a nationally recognized holiday tradition, drawing families from across the country to witness the spectacle.
The parade typically follows a 2.5-mile route through Manhattan, beginning at the corner of 77th Street and Central Park West. It winds south to Columbus Circle, then turns east along 59th Street and continues down Sixth Avenue to its finale in front of Macy’s flagship store at Herald Square. Millions tune in to this festive occasion, which has become synonymous with Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States.
Among the star-studded lineup of performers this year were Cynthia Erivo, Lainey Wilson, and the cast of the Netflix hit, KPop Demon Hunters. The broadcast, available on NBC and Peacock, kicked off at 08:30 in all time zones, ensuring that audiences nationwide could join in the festivities. The event featured a total of 26 scheduled performers, including well-known artists like Calum Scott, Colbie Caillat, Debbie Gibson, and Foreigner.
The origins of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade date back to November 27, 1924, when it was first known as the “Macy’s Christmas Parade.” The initial event included floats inspired by nursery rhymes and live animals from the Central Park Zoo. Over the years, the parade has evolved significantly, incorporating larger-than-life balloons and a diverse array of performances.
This year, balloon characters like Pikachu, Eevee, and Bluey delighted spectators as they floated down Central Park West. The iconic Santa Claus and his sleigh also made an appearance, marking the traditional start of the holiday season for many families.
One of the highlights of the parade was the Labubu float from Pop Mart, which showcased a character created by artist Kasing Lung. The float is a testament to the growing trend of collectible toys and characters being featured alongside more traditional elements of the parade.
The entertainment segment of the event was equally impressive. Busta Rhymes made a notable appearance on the “World of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” float, showcasing his dynamic performance style. His participation, along with the other celebrities, added a contemporary flair to the parade, appealing to younger audiences.
Last year, the 98th edition of the parade attracted a staggering 31.3 million viewers across all platforms, marking a record for the event. This year’s broadcast, which included a mix of live performances and pre-recorded segments, is expected to draw even more attention, reflecting the enduring popularity of this cherished tradition.
As families gathered along the route and in front of their screens, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade once again proved to be a magical kickoff to the holiday season. The event’s combination of music, entertainment, and festive spirit continues to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved staple of American culture.
