The Macy’s Day Parade is once again lighting up Thanksgiving morning, and the 2025 event is already making headlines for its fresh lineup, expanded entertainment schedule, and a blend of new and returning balloons that are drawing nationwide excitement. The parade, celebrating its 99th year, kicked off today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, marking the official start of the holiday season for millions across the United States.
Table of Contents
Latest Updates on the 2025 Parade
The parade began on schedule in New York City with clear visibility and manageable wind conditions, allowing all major balloons to take flight. Crowds gathered early along Central Park West and Sixth Avenue as spectators secured viewing spots for one of the country’s most beloved traditions. The celebration is airing live on NBC, with simultaneous streaming available on Peacock and a Spanish-language broadcast on Telemundo.
Organizers confirmed that the parade remains on its traditional route this year, beginning at 77th Street and Central Park West and ending at Herald Square outside the flagship Macy’s store. Security operations were enhanced as usual for a major holiday event, with city officials managing crowd flow, street closures, and balloon safety.
A Look at This Year’s Lineup
New Balloons and Iconic Favorites
The 2025 parade introduces several new giant character balloons that have already become highlights for fans:
- Buzz Lightyear, updated with a new design reflecting recent franchise releases
- Mario, making a high-energy return after past fan demand
- PAC-MAN, celebrating the classic game’s continued cultural impact
- Shrek’s Onion Carriage, one of the most unusual and whimsical entries this year
These join a large roster of returning favorites, creating a lineup that appeals to kids, families, and longtime parade enthusiasts.
Floats and Balloonicles
New floats centered around entertainment brands, animated films, and holiday themes were added for 2025. Balloonicles — smaller, vehicle-driven balloons — also returned, including several characters tied to recent blockbuster animated releases. Crowd reactions throughout the route have been overwhelmingly positive, with spectators applauding the blend of nostalgia and new additions.
Star-Powered Performances
The opening performance featured Tony-winning actress and singer Cynthia Erivo, who set the tone with a powerful musical number. Additional performers throughout the parade include:
- Busta Rhymes
- Ciara
- Lainey Wilson
- Multiple rising artists featured during various float appearances
The Radio City Rockettes, celebrating their 100th anniversary, delivered one of the most anticipated routines of the morning. Broadway productions, including casts from Ragtime and Buena Vista Social Club, staged live performances along the route, continuing the parade’s long-standing commitment to supporting theater arts in New York City.
High school and college marching bands from across the country rounded out the entertainment schedule, following months of preparation to earn their place in the national spotlight.
Route Details and Best Viewing Areas
The parade follows a familiar and well-loved route:
- Start: 77th Street & Central Park West
- South along Central Park West to 59th Street
- East along Central Park South
- Turn onto Sixth Avenue, traveling south
- Final stretch toward Macy’s Herald Square
Popular viewing spots included the west side of Central Park West between 63rd and 75th Streets, which filled up earliest. By sunrise, much of Sixth Avenue was packed with families, tourists, and longtime parade regulars. While Herald Square provides one of the most dramatic backdrops, it remains a reserved area for broadcast and limited public viewing.
Balloon Safety and Weather Conditions
Wind conditions were closely monitored this morning, with teams positioned along the route to adjust balloon height if necessary. City guidelines allow full-size balloons to fly as long as sustained winds stay below 23 mph and gusts remain under 35 mph. Today’s weather stayed within safe limits, allowing the balloons to fly at their intended heights.
NYPD, FDNY, and parade staff coordinated throughout the morning, as they do each year, to maintain safety and manage crowd movement. Balloon inflation on the Upper West Side the night before drew large crowds, continuing another cherished Thanksgiving tradition.
Why the Parade Continues to Matter
The Macy’s Day Parade holds a unique place in American culture. Nearly eight decades of television broadcasts have made it a Thanksgiving staple for households nationwide. For many families, breakfast and parade watching is as essential to the day as turkey and pie.
Several key reasons fuel its long-lasting popularity:
- Historical significance: Nearing its 100th anniversary
- Cross-generational appeal: Kids enjoy the balloons, adults enjoy the music and nostalgia
- National reach: Millions watch live or on replay
- Cultural representation: Broadway, pop stars, marching bands, and international performers
- Holiday kickoff: It marks the emotional start of the season for many Americans
In 2025, the parade continues to balance tradition with innovation, offering new surprises while honoring decades of cherished memories.
What’s Next as the Parade Approaches Its 100th Anniversary
With the 100th running of the parade arriving next year, many are already anticipating an even larger celebration. Commentators and parade analysts expect new balloon premieres, major celebrity appearances, and expanded cultural representation. While details for 2026 are still under wraps, the buildup has already begun among fans and parade organizers alike.
This year’s strong turnout, festive energy, and smooth procession demonstrate why the parade remains a central part of Thanksgiving across the United States. As spectators pack up their blankets and families gather for holiday meals, the event once again proves why it has endured for nearly a century.
Have a favorite moment from the parade or a balloon you loved most this year? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below.