Fall in New York City isn’t complete without its most iconic spectacle, but this year’s march down 6th Avenue comes with added significance.
Macy’s has officially kicked off its 100-day countdown to the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—marking a once-in-a-century milestone for America’s most famous holiday tradition.
While the parade officially debuted in 1924, its run was suspended from 1942 to 1944 during World War II. That makes 2026 the historic 100th edition, and Macy’s is celebrating with a record-breaking lineup, nostalgic character revivals, and nationwide events leading up to Thanksgiving morning.
A wild lore revival: the return of the Blue Hippopotamus
The biggest surprise of the centennial announcement involves a bit of lost parade history.
In the early days of the parade, organizers filled balloons with helium and released them at the end of the route, offering prizes to anyone who found and returned them.
After the 1931 parade, every single balloon was recovered—except for the Blue Hippopotamus, which floated past the Empire State Building and was never seen again.
Now, 95 years after its escape, Macy’s is bringing the legendary Blue Hippo back to the NYC sky for the 100th celebration.
100 inflatables, classic characters, and Underdog’s return
To mark 100 parades, Macy’s is bringing a record-shattering 100 inflatable elements to the streets of Manhattan.
- Nostalgic Fan Favorites: Underdog will make his first parade appearance since 1984, alongside a brand-new Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey balloon
- The “All-Stars” Float: Retro icons like Bullwinkle, Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Sonic the Hedgehog will ride together on a dedicated historic float
- Tribute to the Mastermind: A new float honoring Tony Sarg—the creative genius behind the parade’s original marionette-style inflatables—will feature re-creations of his 1920s designs
- The Original Pioneer: Felix the Cat, who in 1927 became the very first character balloon ever featured, will also rejoin the lineup
Exclusive keepsakes and retail takeovers
The 100-day celebration is reaching far beyond 6th Ave and TV:
- Limited-Edition Collabs: Macy’s is dropping exclusive centennial products with over 20 top brands, including Crocs, Hallmark, Levi’s, Peanuts, Disney, Michael Kors, Waterford, and more
- Commemorative History Book: Fans can pick up Let’s Have a Parade: Celebrating 100 Macy’s Parades by Weldon Owen, featuring a century of rare behind-the-scenes photography
- In-Store Countdown Clocks: Macy’s Herald Square flagship in NYC will host a physical countdown clock, while select stores nationwide will feature archival balloon window displays
Select product is available now on macys.com, with the full assortment launching in select Macy’s stores nationwide this fall.
100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade details
- Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
- Start Time: 8:30 am (in all time zones)
- Where to Watch: Broadcast live nationwide on NBC and Telemundo, or stream live on Peacock