When and Where to Watch the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade?
It will be broadcast live from 8:30 AM to 12 PM ET
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the most iconic and anticipated traditions in the United States. This year, the celebration features an incredible lineup, including 11 performance groups, 28 clown crews, 11 marching bands, 34 floats, 7 balloonicles, and 22 balloons. The 2024 parade will showcase some special debuts and unique designs—an exciting event we can’t wait to see!
First held on November 27, 1924, the parade was organized by Macy’s employees to celebrate the opening of the retailer’s new store in New York City. Initially known as the «Macy’s Christmas Parade,» it featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo, marching bands, floats inspired by nursery rhymes, and Santa Claus closing the event, signaling the unofficial start of the holiday season. Despite limited media coverage at the time, its success solidified its place as an annual tradition.
In 1927, giant balloons debuted, replacing live animals. Among the first iconic balloons was Mickey Mouse in 1934, setting the stage for beloved character balloons that are now a hallmark of the parade. During World War II, from 1942 to 1944, the parade was paused, with balloon materials donated to the war effort. It resumed in 1945 and has continued uninterrupted, evolving to include celebrities, Broadway performances, and the renowned Rockettes.
Today, millions of viewers watch the parade live and on television, marveling at its balloons, floats, and performances. Beyond its festive spirit, the parade stands as a testament to resilience and creativity, adapting to challenges such as extreme weather, historical events, and the COVID-19 pandemic, when the 2020 edition occurred without an in-person audience.
What time is the Macy’s Parade 2024?:
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2024 will take place on Thursday, November 28, and will be broadcast live from 8:30 AM to 12 PM ET. The parade route begins at West 77th Street and Central Park West, then moves south through Manhattan, passing landmarks like Columbus Circle and Central Park South before heading down Sixth Avenue. The parade concludes at Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street. Some areas along the route have limited or no public viewing access, so arriving early is recommended for the best spots.
Where to Watch the Macy’s Parade 2024?
For those watching from home, the event will be broadcast on NBC and streamed on Peacock. If you prefer to sleep in or enjoy an early Thanksgiving dinner, NBC will air a replay of the parade starting at 2 p.m.