Lainey Wilson's Thanksgiving Day Performance at the Macy's Parade

Lainey Wilson, the Grammy-winning country music artist, made her debut at the 99th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 27, 2025. This performance marked a significant milestone in her career, as she had long cherished the tradition of watching the parade from her family home in Louisiana. Wilson performed a medley of her songs, including "Somewhere Over Laredo" and "Peace, Love and Cowboys," in front of Macy's flagship store in Herald Square, New York City. Unlike many performers who ride on floats, Wilson was able to engage directly with the audience, enhancing the festive atmosphere with her live band and pyrotechnics.

Lainey Wilson Performs at the 99th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade after Wicked: For Good star Cynthia Erivo Opens the ShowLainey Wilson Makes Her Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Debut, Checking Another Item Off Her Bucket ListUSA TodayRolling StoneWTHR - Indianapolis NewsLainey Wilson shares behind-the-scenes video of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade rehearsals

Wilson's participation in the parade comes on the heels of a successful year, highlighted by her wins at the 2025 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, where she took home three awards, including Entertainer of the Year. This recognition solidified her status as a leading figure in country music, as she became one of only three artists to win both Album and Entertainer of the Year in the same year twice. Her album, *Whirlwind*, has also received critical acclaim, contributing to her growing popularity.

Five Takeaways From the 2025 CMA Awards

In interviews leading up to the parade, Wilson expressed her excitement about performing, stating, "It is a huge deal. Country has come to town — we’re here in New York City. This is a big bucket list moment for me and my crew." She also reflected on her childhood memories of the parade, noting, "For me, it's a nostalgic feeling and just a really cool way to be able to send my love back home to my people." Her performance was part of a larger lineup that included artists like Cynthia Erivo, Colbie Caillat, and Kool & The Gang.

Lainey Wilson Makes Her Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Debut, Checking Another Item Off Her Bucket List

While Wilson's performance was celebrated, some fans expressed disappointment over Cody Johnson's preference for spending Thanksgiving with Luke Combs instead of Wilson. Johnson humorously remarked that Combs has "good taste in food," suggesting that he would prefer Combs' Thanksgiving dinner over Wilson's. This light-hearted comment reflects the friendly competition among country music artists.

Cody Johnson Would Rather Spend Thanksgiving With Luke Combs Than Lainey Wilson—Here’s Why

• “It’s a DREAM!!” — Lainey Wilson, expressing her excitement about performing at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Lainey Wilson Performs at the 99th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade after Wicked: For Good star Cynthia Erivo Opens the Show

• “I hope people can just feel the love in the air. I hope that people can see that communities come together, people from all around the world are watching this and I hope that they just remember the reason for the season,” — Lainey Wilson, on the spirit of the holiday season during her performance.

WTHR - Indianapolis News

Following her parade performance, Wilson is set to continue her successful trajectory with upcoming concerts in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, she is engaged to former NFL quarterback Devlin "Duck" Hodges, and the couple is planning their wedding, which adds a personal milestone to her busy career. Wilson's future projects include acting roles and new music, as she continues to build on her achievements in the country music industry.

Rolling Stone