Macy's Day Parade 2025: Dates, Route, And What To Expect

The Macy's Day Parade is one of the most iconic and beloved events in the United States, marking the start of the holiday season. Every year, millions of people line the streets of New York City and millions more watch from home as giant character balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, and celebrity performers make their way through the heart of Manhattan. If you're planning to attend or watch the Macy's Day Parade 2025, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this spectacular event.

What is the Macy's Day Parade?

The Macy's Day Parade is an annual tradition that began in 1924. Originally known as the Macy's Christmas Parade, it was started by Macy's employees to celebrate the opening of the world's largest store. The parade quickly became a beloved tradition, growing in size and popularity over the years. Today, the parade features a dazzling array of giant character balloons, often towering several stories high, alongside intricately designed floats, talented marching bands from across the country, and performances by some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. It’s a true spectacle that captures the spirit of the holidays and brings joy to people of all ages.

The parade is more than just a procession; it's a cultural phenomenon. The giant character balloons, like Snoopy, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Pikachu, have become iconic symbols of the parade. The floats, meticulously crafted and often themed around popular movies, TV shows, and Broadway productions, showcase incredible artistry and creativity. The marching bands, selected from high schools and universities nationwide, bring an infectious energy to the parade with their spirited performances. And the celebrity appearances add a touch of glamour, making the parade a must-watch event for millions.

The Macy's Day Parade has evolved over the decades, adapting to changing times while maintaining its core traditions. New balloons and floats are introduced each year, keeping the parade fresh and exciting. The performances reflect current trends in music and entertainment, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Yet, the parade’s fundamental spirit remains the same: a celebration of joy, community, and the magic of the holiday season. This enduring appeal is what makes the Macy's Day Parade a timeless event, cherished by generations of families.

When is the Macy's Day Parade 2025?

The Macy's Day Parade always takes place on Thanksgiving Day, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November. Therefore, the Macy's Day Parade 2025 will be held on Thursday, November 27, 2025. The parade traditionally starts at 9:00 AM and runs until approximately 12:00 PM Eastern Time. It’s a perfect way to kick off your Thanksgiving celebrations, whether you’re watching from the sidelines in New York City or from the comfort of your home.

Mark your calendars now so you don't miss out on this incredible event. Thanksgiving Day is already a special occasion, but the Macy's Day Parade adds an extra layer of excitement and festivity. For those planning to attend in person, knowing the date well in advance allows you to make travel arrangements and secure the best viewing spots. For those watching on television, setting a reminder ensures you won’t miss any of the action. The parade is a highlight of the holiday season, and knowing the date is the first step in planning your Thanksgiving Day celebrations.

The tradition of holding the parade on Thanksgiving Day dates back to its early years. Macy's chose Thanksgiving as the perfect day to kick off the Christmas shopping season, and the parade was designed to draw crowds to the flagship store. Over time, the connection between the Macy's Day Parade and Thanksgiving has become inseparable. The parade has become an integral part of the Thanksgiving holiday for many families, a shared experience that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. The date is set, so start planning how you'll celebrate with this iconic parade!

The Parade Route: Where to Watch

The Macy's Day Parade route winds its way through the streets of Manhattan, starting on the Upper West Side and making its way down to Macy's Herald Square. The parade begins at 77th Street and Central Park West, moves south along Central Park West to Columbus Circle, and then turns east onto Central Park South. From there, it heads down Sixth Avenue (Avenue of the Americas) to 34th Street, before making its final turn west towards Macy's Herald Square. The entire route is approximately 2.5 miles long, offering numerous viewing opportunities along the way.

Choosing the right spot along the route is crucial for an enjoyable parade experience. Some of the most popular viewing areas include Central Park West between 77th and 59th Streets, and Sixth Avenue between 59th and 38th Streets. However, these areas tend to get very crowded, so it’s essential to arrive early to secure a good spot. For a less crowded experience, consider viewing locations further uptown or downtown along the route. The grandstands in front of Macy's Herald Square offer excellent views, but access is typically by invitation only.

Planning your viewing strategy is key to making the most of the parade. If you're willing to arrive very early (think 6:00 AM or even earlier), you can snag a prime spot along Central Park West or Sixth Avenue. For families with young children, a spot further uptown might be preferable, as it tends to be less congested. Alternatively, consider watching from a hotel room along the parade route if you can secure a reservation well in advance. No matter where you choose to watch, be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly. Dress warmly, bring snacks and drinks, and most importantly, bring your holiday spirit!

What to Expect at the 2025 Parade

The Macy's Day Parade is renowned for its spectacular display of giant character balloons. These inflatable behemoths, often depicting beloved characters from movies, TV shows, and comic books, are a highlight of the parade. Expect to see classic favorites like Snoopy and Mickey Mouse, as well as new and exciting additions. Each balloon is a marvel of engineering and artistry, requiring a team of handlers to guide it along the route. The balloons add a sense of wonder and whimsy to the parade, delighting children and adults alike.

In addition to the balloons, the parade features a stunning array of floats. These intricately designed platforms are often themed around popular movies, Broadway shows, and holiday stories. The floats are adorned with vibrant colors, elaborate decorations, and moving parts, creating a visual feast for the eyes. Many floats also feature live performances, adding another layer of entertainment to the parade. The floats are a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of the parade's organizers, and they contribute significantly to the parade's overall spectacle.

The Macy's Day Parade also showcases the talent and energy of marching bands from across the country. These bands, selected through a rigorous application process, represent some of the finest musical ensembles in the nation. They fill the streets with music, performing spirited renditions of holiday classics and contemporary hits. The marching bands add a dynamic and festive atmosphere to the parade, energizing the crowd and adding to the overall excitement.

Celebrity appearances are another exciting element of the Macy's Day Parade. Each year, the parade features performances by well-known musicians, actors, and other entertainers. These celebrities add a touch of glamour to the parade, attracting even more viewers and creating memorable moments. The celebrity performances are often integrated into the floats or take place at designated performance areas along the route.

Tips for Attending the Parade in Person

If you’re planning to attend the Macy's Day Parade in person, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Arriving early is crucial to secure a good viewing spot. The most popular areas along the route fill up quickly, so aim to arrive several hours before the parade starts. This will give you time to find a spot and settle in before the crowds get too large. Dress warmly in layers, as the weather in New York City in late November can be chilly. Bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be standing for several hours. It’s also a good idea to bring snacks and drinks to keep you energized throughout the parade.

Navigating the city on Thanksgiving Day can be challenging due to street closures and increased crowds. Public transportation is the most efficient way to get around, but be prepared for delays and crowded trains and buses. Check the MTA website for updated schedules and service changes. If you’re driving, be aware of parking restrictions and road closures, and allow extra time for travel. Consider using a ride-sharing service or taxi, but be prepared for higher fares and potential traffic delays.

Staying safe is a top priority when attending the parade in person. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Stay within designated viewing areas and follow instructions from parade officials and law enforcement. If you’re attending with children, make sure they know what to do if you get separated. Designate a meeting point in case you lose each other, and consider writing your phone number on their arm or clothing. Stay hydrated and take breaks if you need to. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy the Macy's Day Parade safely and comfortably.

How to Watch the Parade from Home

If you can’t make it to New York City for the parade, you can still enjoy the Macy's Day Parade from the comfort of your home. The parade is broadcast live on NBC, providing comprehensive coverage of all the floats, balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performances. The broadcast typically starts at 9:00 AM Eastern Time and runs for three hours. Gather your family and friends, prepare some Thanksgiving treats, and settle in for a festive morning of entertainment.

In addition to watching on television, you can also stream the Macy's Day Parade online. NBC’s website and streaming apps often offer live coverage of the parade, allowing you to watch on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Many other streaming services, such as Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and Peacock, also carry NBC and may offer live streaming of the parade. Check your local listings for broadcast times and streaming options.

Social media provides another way to engage with the Macy's Day Parade. Follow Macy's and NBC on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for behind-the-scenes content, parade updates, and exclusive interviews. Share your own photos and videos using the official parade hashtag. Social media can enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to connect with other parade enthusiasts and stay up-to-date on all the latest happenings. Whether you’re watching on TV, streaming online, or following on social media, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the magic of the Macy's Day Parade from home.

Conclusion

The Macy's Day Parade 2025 promises to be another spectacular event, filled with joy, wonder, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re planning to attend in person or watch from home, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of this iconic parade. Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 27, 2025, and get ready to kick off the holiday season in style. From the giant character balloons and elaborate floats to the talented marching bands and celebrity performances, the Macy's Day Parade is a true celebration of American culture and tradition. Don't miss out on this unforgettable event!

For more information about the Macy's Day Parade, you can visit the official Macy's website. This trusted website provides the most up-to-date details about the parade, including the route, lineup, and broadcast information.