No NYC fall season is complete without one of its most beloved traditions — the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!
The 99th annual celebration returns on Thursday, November 27, 2025, filling the streets of Manhattan with larger-than-life balloons, dazzling floats, celebrity performances, and of course, a grand appearance from Santa Claus himself.
A true New York institution, the parade has been spreading holiday cheer since 1924, and this year’s lineup is shaping up to be out of this world — quite literally, with a brand new Buzz Lightyear balloon joining the fleet alongside returning favorites like Bluey, Snoopy, and SpongeBob SquarePants.
Before you start forming your Thanksgiving plans, here’s everything you need to know to experience the magic — whether you’re watching from the streets or cozying up at home.
When is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
The 99th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 8:30 am to noon (EST).
You can watch it live on NBC or stream it on Peacock, with nationwide coverage of all the floats, balloons, and performances!
What is the parade route?
The 2025 parade route follows its classic 2.5-mile route through the heart of Midtown, starting up on the Upper West Side:
- Starts at West 77th Street & Central Park West
- Travels down Central Park West to Columbus Circle
- Continues along Central Park South and 6th Avenue
- Concludes at Macy’s Herald Square (34th Street)
Public viewing areas usually open around 6 am, so early risers are rewarded with the best spots!
The best viewing spots to watch the parade
If you’re planning to experience the parade live, here are a few tried-and-true viewing spots:
- Central Park West (61st–75th Streets): Early birds get front-row views of the balloons as they lift off.
- West 59th South: Great views on south side of W 59th St between Columbus Circle and 6th Avenue
- 6th Avenue: Great views from W 59th – W 38th Streets
- Bryant Park Area (6th Ave between 40th–42nd): Perfect for pairing parade views with hot cocoa from the Winter Village.
(Note: There’s no public viewing at Macy’s Herald Square. Avoid watching on 6th Avenue between W 34th & W 38th Streets and on W 34th between 6th & 7th Avenues. TV broadcasts limit viewing here.)
Who’s performing at the 2025 parade?
While this year’s celebrity performers and Broadway acts haven’t been announced yet, expect a mix of chart-topping artists, marching bands, and the world-famous Radio City Rockettes, who always kick off the holiday spirit.
Stay tuned for the full performance lineup, which Macy’s typically unveils in early November.
What’s new this year?
This year’s parade introduces several brand-new balloons and floats, joining returning favorites and holiday icons! Among the highlights:
✨ New Balloons:
- Buzz Lightyear (Pixar Animation Studios) – first appearance
- Shrek’s Onion Carriage (DreamWorks Animation) – first appearance
- Freida the Dachshund, Greybow Trout, and a new Red Macy’s Star (all Macy’s Originals)
🎠 New Floats:
- The Land of Ice and Wonder (Holland America Line) – a dazzling, winter-inspired debut
Returning favorites include Snoopy, Bluey, Pikachu & Eevee, PAW Patrol’s Marshall, and the always-iconic Tom Turkey leading the way!
Expected street closures & getting there
Plan ahead — street closures and traffic detours span much of the parade route, including:
- Central Park West (59th–86th Streets)
- 6th Avenue (23rd–59th Streets)
- 34th Street (5th–8th Avenues)
If possible, use public transportation — the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W trains all have nearby stops.