Full Breakdown
106th 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade: A Philadelphia Tradition
11/27/2025, 10:15:59 PM
Overview of the Event
The 106th 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade, the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the United States, is set to take place on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025. The event will commence at 9 a.m. after a pre-show starting at 8:30 a.m., broadcast live on 6abc and available for streaming on Hulu and ABC News Live. This year’s theme is "Holiday Magic," featuring 14 helium balloons, over 1,000 performers, and a record 37 musical acts.
Parade Details and Route
The parade will begin at 20th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard, proceeding east to 16th Street, then north to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It will continue west along the Parkway, circling Eakins Oval before dispersing near the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The event is free to attend, with thousands expected to line the streets.
Featured Performers and Attractions
This year's parade will showcase a variety of performances, including appearances by the Four Tops, David Archuleta, and Jordin Sparks. Special guests will include Kelly Ripa, Ryan Seacrest, and the cast of "Abbott Elementary." The parade will also feature marching bands from across the country, including the Penn Marching Kingsmen Band and the Pennsbury High School Band.
Preparations and Challenges
Preparations for the parade have been extensive, with hundreds of volunteers and performers rehearsing for days leading up to the event. Due to inclement weather, some rehearsals were moved indoors to ensure performers could practice effectively. Creative producer Chally Rowjohn noted the challenges but emphasized the excitement surrounding the event, stating, "It's a big process, but it is really fun."
Road Closures and Transportation Impact
In anticipation of the parade, significant road closures will be in effect. Starting from the evening of November 26, streets along the parade route will close, with full closures beginning early on Thanksgiving Day. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and allow extra time for travel. SEPTA will operate on a Sunday schedule, with several bus routes detoured due to the event.
Historical Significance
The 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade has a rich history, first held in 1920 by the Gimbel Brothers Department Store. After Gimbel's closure in 1986, WPVI-TV/6abc took over the tradition, which has since become a cherished part of Philadelphia's holiday celebrations. The parade not only marks the arrival of Santa Claus but also serves as a unifying event for the community.
Official Statements & Responses
John Best, co-producer of the parade, expressed pride in continuing this long-standing tradition, stating, "We have a lot of new balloons this year... They get bigger and better every year." The creative team aims to bring joy and holiday spirit to the families attending the parade.
What's Next
As the parade approaches, final preparations are underway, with organizers ensuring that everything is in place for a successful event. The community looks forward to celebrating this beloved tradition, marking the official start of the holiday season in Philadelphia.
Verbatim Quotes
- “And it is a massive parade by the numbers. We have 600 volunteers. We have 14 larger-than-life helium balloons, 11 marching bands from all over the country, more than 1,000 singers and dancers, plus a record 37 musical performances.” — John Best, Co-Producer
- “It is a bit process, but it is really fun," said dancer Ryan Skrocki.” — Ryan Skrocki, Dancer
- “When I look down the parkway and see thousands and thousands of people who showed up to watch this, it's really a special moment and a great thing to say that you're part of,” — John Morris, VP of Multiplatform Programming at 6abc
