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99th Macy's Parade: New Floats, Balloons, and Cynthia Erivo!

11/23/2025

50 12 Full Breakdown

Center

Cynthia Erivo Opens Parade

The 99th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place on November 27, 2025, in New York City, starting at 8:30 a.m.
The parade will feature 34 balloons, 28 floats, and 11 marching bands.
Cynthia Erivo, the actress, will open the event.
New floats include a Stranger Things design and a 16-foot Labubu balloon.
The route spans 2.5 miles to Macy’s Herald Square.

Left

Temple Band Debuts

The Temple University Diamond Marching Band will perform for the first time at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 27, 2025.
The 200-member ensemble is the only band from Pennsylvania or New Jersey in the parade.
Band director Matthew Brunner emphasized the event's significance and likened it to the Super Bowl.
Ithaca's Armstrong School of Dance will participate, marking their seventh appearance.

History

Historical Context

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924, featuring 25 floats and live animals, attracting over 250,000 spectators. By 1927, it introduced giant character balloons, designed by Tony Sarg, which became iconic. The parade has evolved into a national tradition, showcasing diverse performances and fostering community engagement, while symbolizing American holiday celebrations and unity.

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Cynthia Erivo Opens Parade

The 99th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will take place on November 27, 2025, in New York City, starting at 8:30 a.m.
The parade will feature 34 balloons, 28 floats, and 11 marching bands.
Cynthia Erivo, the actress, will open the event.
New floats include a Stranger Things design and a 16-foot Labubu balloon.
The route spans 2.5 miles to Macy’s Herald Square.

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