The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade brought a burst of color to Manhattan’s streets once again. This year’s spectacle features 17 massive character balloons, 22 floats, 15 novelty inflatables, 11 marching bands, 700 clowns, and 10 performance groups, delighting spectators along the way.
Despite the rain, thousands of onlookers have lined the 2.5-mile route, which began at 8:30 a.m. on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and winds its way to Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square on 34th Street.
The parade’s signature helium balloons stole the show, having been inflated on Wednesday in preparation for the big day. New additions for 2025 include iconic characters like Minnie Mouse, Goku from Dragon Ball, and Spider-Man, joining classic favorites such as Smokey Bear and SpongeBob SquarePants.
Actress Alison Brie had the honor of kicking off this year’s festivities. Prime viewing spots for the parade are along Central Park West, between West 75th and 61st Streets, and along Sixth Avenue, between West 59th and 38th Streets.
Spectators are encouraged to avoid bringing large bags, umbrellas, backpacks, or strollers. While no specific threats have been identified, the NYPD has stationed sanitation trucks and blocker vehicles along the route as part of enhanced security measures.
The event also boasts an impressive lineup of performers, including rapper T-Pain, The War and Treaty, Lea Salonga, Kylie Cantrall, The Temptations, Chlöe, Charli D’Amelio, Jimmy Fallon & The Roots, Coco Jones, Walker Hayes, Rachel Platten, Bishop Briggs, Joey McIntyre, and Natti Natasha. Ballet dancers Tiler Peck and Roman Mejia, along with the iconic Radio City Rockettes, also made appearances.
Joining the lineup are the WNBA champions, the New York Liberty, who are marching alongside their popular mascot.
Due to the massive crowds and numerous street closures, public transportation is strongly recommended for those attending the event.
