America's most famous Thanksgiving spectacle, the 99th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, is set to deliver another unforgettable show for millions of families across the nation. This beloved tradition promises a morning of giant balloons, dazzling floats, and show-stopping musical performances.
When and How to Watch the Parade
The festivities kick off at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time and will be broadcast live to all time zones simultaneously. For those planning their viewing, the parade will air on NBC and can be streamed live on Peacock. A Spanish-language simulcast will be available on Telemundo. If you miss the live event, an encore telecast is scheduled for 2 p.m. EST/PST.
The parade's popularity continues to soar, with last year's broadcast drawing a record-breaking audience. Over 31 million viewers tuned in on NBC and Peacock, making it the most-watched parade in the event's history.
Star-Studded Performers and Weather Conditions
This year's musical lineup is particularly impressive, featuring a mix of legendary acts and contemporary stars. Audiences can look forward to performances from Cynthia Erivo, Ciara, Foreigner, Lil Jon, Kool & the Gang, Busta Rhymes, Mickey Guyton, Teyana, and the fictional girl group HUNTR/X.
As for the weather, spectators should prepare for a crisp autumn day. The forecast predicts a high of 48 degrees Fahrenheit with partly cloudy skies and winds of up to 13 mph. Parade organisers have strict safety rules for the iconic giant balloons: they are grounded if sustained winds exceed 23 mph or gusts surpass 35 mph.
A Tradition of Celebration and Pardon
In a charming prelude to the main event, the parade's famous turkey mascots, 'Gobble' and 'Waddle', are already receiving VIP treatment at a luxury hotel ahead of the White House Thanksgiving pardon. This light-hearted tradition adds to the festive spirit of a day that brings the nation together in celebration.