Preparations for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

NEW YORK — Giant balloons got into shape Wednesday for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as crews inflated the giant characters on the streets of New York City.

The parade kicks off Thursday morning, with dozens of huge balloons set to take to the skies. Floats, entertainers, marching bands and more will grace the streets.

Preparation Process

About 100 balloon technicians and volunteers worked Wednesday to puff up dozens of characters. It takes about eight hours to ready them all, said Kathleen Wright, who oversees production operations for Macy’s Studios.

The process might be gradual, but Ethan Otieno was excited to see it.

“I think it’s very cool to watch them be inflated and try to guess the characters,” the tourist from Texas said while watching with relatives.

Otieno’s favorite balloon? Smokey Bear.

Parade Details

The parade is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. EST, rain or shine. It runs from Manhattan’s Upper West Side to Macy’s Herald Square flagship store on 34th Street.

Officials are watching the weather, since the forecast as of Wednesday evening calls for a somewhat gusty day.

People pass Mario balloon during inflation for the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Frank Franklin II / AP

Safety Precautions

For safety reasons, New York City law prohibits Macy’s from flying the full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph or wind gusts are over 35 mph. Weather has grounded the balloons only once, in 1971, but they also sometimes have soared lower than usual because of wind.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a news conference that authorities would decide Thursday morning whether any balloon adjustments are needed.

New Additions to the Parade

New balloons in this year’s lineup include Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, Mario from Super Mario Brothers and a 32-foot-tall balloon onion carriage featuring eight characters from the world of “Shrek.”

“It’s a lot of those really nostalgic and familiar characters, everybody’s favorites,” Wright said. There are also new balloons derived from characters in this year’s Netflix hit “KPop Demon Hunters.”

New floats this year include a Pop Mart entry, with the ubiquitous figure Labubu, as well as Skullpanda, Peach Riot, Dimoo, Molly, Duckoo and Mokoko.

Performers and Entertainment

A star-studded lineup of performers — including Cynthia Erivo, Conan Gray, Lainey Wilson and Audrey Nuna, EJAE and Rei Ami of HUNTR/X, the fictional girl group at the heart of “KPop Demon Hunters” — will be sprinkled throughout the show, along with a slew of marching bands, Broadway cast members and others. As is traditional, the Radio City Rockettes are expected.

Related News

The Blue Raider Band from L.D. Bell High School is set to perform during Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The Macy’s Great American Marching Band played as it headed down Sixth Avenue during the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Conclusion

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition that brings people together to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season. With its iconic balloons, floats, and performances, it’s an event that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re watching from the streets of New York City or from the comfort of your own home, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What time does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade start?

A: The parade starts at 8:30 a.m. EST.

Q: Where can I watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

A: You can watch the parade on television or stream it online. You can also attend the parade in person in New York City.

Q: What are some of the new balloons in this year’s parade?

A: Some of the new balloons in this year’s parade include Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, and a 32-foot-tall balloon onion carriage featuring eight characters from the world of “Shrek.”