The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is just two years shy of its centennial celebration, promises to deliver another year full of excitement, colorful balloons, and joyful music that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. This cherished tradition has become synonymous with Thanksgiving for millions, bringing families together to enjoy the spectacle and celebrate the values of gratitude and community. The parade not only marks the beginning of the holiday season but also showcases the creativity and talent of performers and artists from all over the country.

This year’s spectacular lineup includes an impressive array of 22 extravagant floats, 17 beloved character balloons, and 15 unique heritage and novelty balloons. According to NBC, which is responsible for broadcasting this iconic event, the parade will feature more than 700 lively clowns who will entertain the crowds. Additionally, viewers can look forward to captivating performances by famous music stars, complemented by the energetic presence of 11 marching bands and 10 dynamic performance groups. Each element of the parade is designed to create an unforgettable experience for both attendees and television viewers alike.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about this beloved Thanksgiving tradition, including the exact date it will take place this year, how to watch the live broadcast, and a fascinating look into the rich history of the parade. Whether you’re planning to attend in person or enjoy it from the comfort of your home, this information will ensure you don’t miss any of the festive fun and excitement.

Mark Your Calendars: Macy’s 2024 Thanksgiving Day Parade Date

The much-anticipated Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place annually on Thanksgiving Day, which in 2024 falls on Thursday, November 28. This date is a significant highlight for many families as they gather to celebrate the holiday, making it a perfect opportunity to kick off the festive season with a spectacular display. The parade has become a beloved ritual, and its scheduling marks the beginning of various holiday celebrations across the country.

As an exciting prelude to the main event, the Countdown to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade special will air the night before Thanksgiving, on November 27. This program will offer viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the preparations and festivities leading up to the parade, giving insights into the hard work and creativity involved in bringing this magnificent event to life.

Start Time for the Unforgettable Parade Experience

The parade will kick off at 8:30 a.m. in all time zones, running for a full 3 ½ hours, concluding at noon. This early start allows families to enjoy the parade together before the traditional Thanksgiving meal. For those who might miss the live broadcast, an encore presentation will be available at 2 p.m. ET/PT, ensuring that everyone has the chance to experience this iconic celebration of Thanksgiving.

Experience the Thrill: Location of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade unfolds in the heart of New York City, starting on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and culminating at the iconic Macy’s Herald Square flagship store located on 34th Street. This central location serves not only as a dynamic stage for various performances but also as a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the overall festive atmosphere. The route is lined with enthusiastic spectators who gather to witness the colorful floats and balloons as they make their way through the bustling streets of one of the world’s most famous cities.

How to Tune In: Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

For those wishing to catch the parade live, it will be broadcast on NBC, making it accessible for cable viewers via antenna or through various cable and satellite providers. This accessibility ensures that countless families can gather around their televisions to enjoy the parade together, experiencing the joy and excitement of this annual tradition right from their living rooms.

Stream the Parade Live: Options for Cord-Cutters

For those who have opted for a cable-free lifestyle, the parade will also be simulcast on Peacock, providing a convenient streaming option. An encore telecast will begin at 2 p.m. EST/PST, allowing viewers who may have missed the live broadcast to enjoy the festivities later. Additionally, a Spanish-language simulcast will be available on Telemundo, ensuring that a diverse audience can partake in this cherished holiday tradition.

Meet the Hosts: Celebrating the Parade with NBC’s Stars

Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker, all renowned personalities from NBC’s Today show, will reprise their roles as hosts for this year’s parade broadcast. Their engaging commentary and vibrant personalities add to the festive atmosphere, making the viewing experience even more enjoyable for audiences at home.

This year’s parade is particularly significant for Hoda Kotb, as it may be her final appearance as co-host. In late September, she announced her departure from the TODAY show after nearly two decades as a beloved co-anchor. Her last official day on the show is set for January 10, making this parade a bittersweet moment for fans who have followed her journey over the years.

The Rich History of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: A Tradition Since 1924

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has a storied history, having first taken place in 1924. Although it won’t be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the event has continued to evolve and grow in popularity. Notably, the parade was not held during the years 1942, 1943, and 1944 due to the impact of World War II, showcasing its resilience through challenging times.

Originally conceived as a Christmas celebration, the parade featured a variety of floats, marching bands, and even live animals from the zoo, attracting around 10,000 spectators in its early days. The event culminated with the arrival of Santa Claus, marking the official start of the Christmas season and the unveiling of the store’s festive window displays. Three years later, it was officially renamed the Thanksgiving Day Parade. The first televised broadcast occurred in 1946, initially in New York, and was subsequently aired nationally on NBC the following year, forever changing the way audiences experience this beloved holiday event.