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Here’s what you need to know about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this year

NY: 2023 Macy’s Thankgiving Parade
Bluey stars in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Photo by Gabriele Holtermann

Thanksgiving is swiftly approaching, and with that comes the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!

On Nov. 28, a series of larger-than-life balloons representing beloved pop culture characters, interactive floats and live performances will celebrate the annual holiday in Manhattan.

Here’s what you need to know about the parade this year.

What is the parade route?

The parade steps off at West 77th Street & Central Park West and continues down Central Park West from West 75th to West 61st Streets. The route then turns onto Central Park South at Columbus Circle and follow the road to 6th Avenue, where the parade the parade will march from 59th Street to 34th Street, ending at Macy’s Herald Square.

Public viewing will not be available at the very start of the parade, Central Park West between West 59th & West 60th Streets, Central Park South, or on the south side of West 34th Street between Broadway & 7th Avenue. Click here for an interactive map of the parade to find good viewing spots.

What time does the parade start?

The parade will step off at 8:30 a.m. and will continue until 12 p.m.

What’s the parade lineup?

The parade will feature 22 balloons, 7 ballonicles, 34 floats, 11 marching bands, 28 performers, 28 clown crews and 11 performance groups. And, as always, Santa Claus himself will bring up the rear of the parade, ushering New York City into the holiday season. 

What are the new floats and balloons this year?

Joining the balloon lineup this year for the first time are Minnie Mouse, Extraordinary Noorah™ & The Elf on the Shelf®, Goku from the “Dragon Ball” series, Gabby from “Gabby’s Dollhouse,” Marshall from “PAW Patrol,” and Spider-Man, with new balloonicles Lox & Java Trycaloon, Cookie & Crouton the pigeons, Go Bowling, and Bluey’s Grannie Car. 

The new floats this year include Candy Cosmos, Dora’s Fantastical Rainforest, Magic Meets the Seas, Pasta Knight, SpongeBob SquarePants Garriage, Wednesday’s Feast, and The Bronx Zoo’s Wondrous World of Wildlife.

Where can I watch from home?

Millions of people will be watching the parade from home this year. The parade airs live on NBC and on Peacock.

For more information about the parade, visit macys.com.