Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and for many Americans, the celebration is synonymous with turkey, family get-togethers, and of course, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. A cherished and iconic event, the parade started in the 1920s and has since become an integral part of New York City’s culture. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history and significance of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, along with some interesting facts and behind-the-scenes details.
The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in 1924, and it was originally called the Macy’s Christmas Parade. The route began at 145th Street in Harlem and ended at Macy’s flagship store on 34th Street. The parade was a massive hit, with over 250,000 people showing up to watch live, and it quickly became an annual event. By 1931, the parade had shifted to its now-traditional route from Central Park West to Herald Square, and new attractions like giant helium balloons and floats began to appear.
One of the most intriguing facts about the parade is how it was used to promote consumerism during the Great Depression. Macy’s partnered with Hollywood studios to launch giant inflatable balloons of popular cartoon characters like Mickey Mouse and Felix the Cat. These balloons were designed to capture the attention of children and their parents alike, promoting Macy’s as a fun family-friendly shopping destination. The balloons are still a staple of the parade today, with beloved classics like Snoopy, Pikachu, and Spongebob appearing each year.
The Macy’s Parade is also famous for its musical performances, featuring a star-studded lineup of musicians, singers, and Broadway performers. Iconic performances from the past include Diana Ross singing “I’m Coming Out” on a floating diamond, and the Rockettes kicking their way through “New York, New York.” In recent years, the parade has also highlighted the talents of up-and-coming artists like Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, and Kelly Clarkson.
Behind the scenes of the Macy’s Parade is a dedicated team of designers, artists, and technicians, who work tirelessly to create the elaborate floats, balloons, and costumes. It takes over a year to design and build each float, with each one featuring intricate details and moving parts. The balloons are custom-built by hand using over 50,000 cubic feet of helium and take up to 18 months to complete. The balloon handlers are a specially trained team of volunteers who hold onto ropes attached to the balloons, keeping them stable and preventing them from floating away.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than just a parade – it’s an annual celebration of creativity, community, and tradition. For over 90 years, Macy’s has brought people together to watch towering balloons, dazzling floats, and amazing performances. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or a first-time visitor, the Parade is a must-see event that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving and reminds us all of the importance of coming together to give thanks and celebrate. So, grab yourself a hot cocoa and a cozy blanket, and join us in watching this spectacular NYC tradition!
Here’s an overview of the parade and why it’s such a beloved tradition in the city:
History of the Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924 as a way to promote the holiday shopping season at the famous department store. It started with an artist drawing animals on a float, which was then pulled by horses down the streets of NYC. Since then, it has become a beloved tradition for many.
What to Expect from the Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual event that always features something special. It includes appearances from giant balloons, marching bands, musical performances, theatrical productions and more. The parade even features a special “Star of the Show” balloon which is revealed on the day of the parade.
In addition, there are also numerous activities and events taking place in the area before and after the parade that visitors can take part in. From giant rock walls to face painting, there is something for everyone!
What Makes it Special?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition because of its long history and unique elements. It is a unique event that brings together people from all walks of life and ages to celebrate the start of the holiday season in NYC. It also showcases incredible talent from around the country, including marching bands, dancers and performers.
Overall, it is an event that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving while bringing joy to thousands of spectators annually. For many, this parade is a reminder of the importance of family, friendship and giving thanks.
How to Participate in the Parade
For those looking to join in on the festivities, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade features many opportunities for volunteers. There are volunteer positions available for everything from balloon wrangling to crowd control. Volunteers can also apply to be a part of the parade’s marching band or a performer in the show.
The parade is also open to visitors from all over, so anyone can attend and take part in the celebrations! There are numerous activities and events taking place around the area that are accessible to everyone. From parades to outdoor movie screenings, there is something for everyone at this years’ Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Other Considerations
As the parade is a beloved tradition in NYC, it also brings many logistical challenges. It is important to plan ahead for this event and consider all of the necessary logistics involved.
From safety precautions to finding accommodations for large groups, there are a number of things that need to be taken into account when organizing a parade.
Final Thoughts
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an iconic event that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate the holiday. It is a time of giving thanks and spending quality time with our loved ones. This parade offers unique opportunities to participate as volunteers or spectators, bringing joy and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer, attend the parade as a spectator or simply enjoy the celebrations from afar, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out and make sure to mark your calendars for the day of the parade!
The parade is also a great way to give back to the community, as Macy’s has partnered with many organizations that are dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives. Attendees can donate directly to these causes at the event or online, helping to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
