The 99th edition of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place on November 27, 2025, once again transforming the streets of New York City into a vibrant celebration filled with floats, music, and beloved characters. This annual tradition has grown from a local event into a nationally recognized spectacle, attracting families from across the country to witness the festivities firsthand.
The parade follows a 2.5-mile route, beginning at the corner of 77th Street and Central Park West. The procession moves south to Columbus Circle, turns east along 59th Street, and continues down Sixth Avenue before concluding in front of Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square. This year, NBC and Peacock broadcast the event live starting at 08:30 in all time zones, allowing millions to join in the celebration from their homes.
Performers included a diverse lineup of talent, with notable appearances by Cynthia Erivo, Lainey Wilson, and stars from the Netflix film “KPop Demon Hunters.” In total, there were 26 scheduled performers contributing to the parade’s festive atmosphere. Other celebrated artists included Calum Scott, Colbie Caillat, Debbie Gibson, and Busta Rhymes, who showcased their talents on various floats.
The origin of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade dates back to November 27, 1924, when it was initially called the “Macy’s Christmas Parade.” The first event featured floats inspired by nursery rhymes and live animals from the Central Park Zoo. Over the decades, the parade has evolved significantly, now showcasing elaborate floats and iconic balloons, including this year’s appearances of characters like Pikachu, Eevee, and Bluey.
Families often travel long distances to attend the parade, hoping to share the excitement with their children. The festive atmosphere is palpable, with parents and kids alike eagerly awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus and his sleigh, a highlight of the event. The Labubu float from Pop Mart, depicting a character from artist Kasing Lung‘s book series, also drew attention as it made its way down Sixth Avenue.
Notably, the parade continues to attract record viewership. In 2024, the event garnered a remarkable 31.3 million total viewers across all platforms, marking a 10% increase from the previous year and setting an all-time high for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year’s festivities further solidified the event’s status as a cherished American tradition, celebrating community and the spirit of Thanksgiving.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade remains a highlight of the holiday season, capturing the hearts of both attendees and viewers alike, and serving as a reminder of the joy and togetherness that define this special time of year.
