When is Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in 2023?
Alright, guys, let's dive right into it! You're here because you're curious about the big event, right? The one that marks the official start of the holiday season. We're talking about none other than the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade! So, when exactly is this spectacular event happening in 2023? Let's find out! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and when is macy's thanksgiving parade.
A Brief History of Macy's Thanksgiving Parade
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of when the parade is happening, let's take a quick step back in time. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was first held in 1924, making it a beloved American tradition that's over 90 years old! It was initially created to celebrate the holiday season and to draw shoppers to the Macy's store in New York City. Little did they know, it would become a national phenomenon!
The Early Days
The first parade was a massive hit, with over 250,000 spectators lining the streets to watch the giant balloons, floats, and clowns. The parade was so popular that it became an annual event, and in 1927, the first giant balloon – Flying High, a Felix the Cat balloon – took to the skies above New York City.
When is Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in 2023?
Now, let's get to the main event! You're probably wondering, "When is Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in 2023?" Well, mark your calendars, folks! The parade is set to take place on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2023.
Parade Schedule
The parade kicks off at 9:00 AM EST and typically lasts until around noon. However, the best time to catch all the action is from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Here's a quick rundown of the schedule:
- 9:00 AM EST: The parade begins at 77th Street and Central Park West. - 9:30 AM EST: The parade reaches Central Park South/59th Street, where you can catch a great view of the floats and balloons. - 12:00 PM EST: The parade concludes at Macy's Herald Square on 34th Street.
Where to Watch the Parade
If you're planning on watching the parade in person, here are some popular spots along the route:
- 1. Central Park West: This is where the parade begins, so you'll get to see all the floats and balloons as they start their journey downtown.
- 2. Central Park South/59th Street: This is a great spot to see the parade in full swing, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the show.
- 3. Herald Square: This is where the parade ends, so you'll get to see all the action up close and personal. Plus, you can do some early holiday shopping at Macy's after the parade!
Watching the Parade from Home
If you can't make it to New York City for the parade, don't worry! You can still catch all the action from the comfort of your own home. The parade will be broadcast live on NBC from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST. You can also stream the parade online on the NBC Live app or on the NBC website.
What to Expect at the Parade
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is famous for its massive balloons, elaborate floats, and performances by some of the biggest names in entertainment. Here's what you can expect to see at the parade:
Giant Balloons
The parade is known for its larger-than-life balloons, featuring popular characters from movies, TV shows, and children's books. Some fan favorites include SpongeBob SquarePants, Elsa from Frozen, and Pikachu.
Floats
The parade features dozens of elaborate floats, many of which are designed by Macy's own art department. These floats often showcase the latest trends in fashion, home decor, and technology.
Performances
The parade is also famous for its performances by some of the biggest names in music, film, and television. Past performers have included Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, and Tony Bennett.
The Macy's Santa Claus
Of course, no Thanksgiving parade would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus himself! The jolly old elf makes his grand entrance at the end of the parade, signaling the official start of the holiday season.
Fun Facts About the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Before we wrap up, let's take a look at some fun facts about the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade:
- The first parade featured animals from the Central Park Zoo, as well as a group of Macy's employees dressed as clowns. - The balloons are filled with helium, not hot air, to keep them afloat. - The balloons are guided by teams of handlers, who use ropes to steer them through the city streets. - The parade is produced by the same company that produces the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show. - The parade takes over 1,000 volunteers to put on each year.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to take place on November 23, 2023, starting at 9:00 AM EST. Whether you're watching from the streets of New York City or from the comfort of your own home, this iconic event is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. Happy Thanksgiving, and we hope to see you at the parade!