A yearly Thanksgiving tradition for American society is watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Whether they are standing in the streets of New York City watching the parade in person, or turning the TV on and watching it at home, the performances, floats, and the balloons are the most intriguing part of Thanksgiving morning.
With 34 balloons flying high, 28 floats driving by, and 26 performers singing and dancing, the Macy’s 99th Annual Parade is the place to be. Follow the parade’s route and see all of the live action throughout “the heart of New York City.”
According to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade website, for the 2025 Thanksgiving parade, there are five new balloons that will be floating across the streets of New York City. The latest balloons to be featured on the big day are Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story, the Derpy Tiger from KPOP Demon Hunters, Shrek’s Onion Carriage from the Shrek movies, Mario from the Super Mario games, and PAC-MAN from the PAC-MAN games.
Following the display of balloons are some new floats that will be driving around during the parade. The seven new floats that will be trailing behind the rest of the show are the Brick-tastic Winter Mountain by LEGO, the Counting Sheep’s Dream Generator by Serta, Friends-giving in POPCITY by POPMART, The Land of Ice and Wonder by the Holland America Line, The Littlest Float by Goldfish, the Master Chocolatier Ballroom by Lindt, and the Upside Down Invasion: Stranger Things by Netflix.
When it comes to watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, many staff and students make it a part of their yearly tradition, while others hit the road to visit family and miss it while driving. Whether it’s about the performances, or just growing up watching the parade by habit, there are many things to enjoy about the festivities while getting ready for your Thanksgiving feast.
Freshman Emma Allison said, “Yes, my family and I watch it and my favorite part is the live music.”
English teacher Ms. Megan Curry agreed with Allison when it comes to the Broadway performances.
“I love to watch the Broadway performances. I am a totally obsessed theatre nerd,” said Curry.
Sophomore Emily Tamburro said that she loves seeing the Rockettes perform.
No Thanksgiving parade would be complete without an appearance by Santa in the grand finale.
Supervisor Ms. Jamie Cawley shared how “it was always a moment for [her] growing up as a child and now as a parent [herself].” She believes it marks the beginning of the Christmas season, especially when Santa shows up for the parade.
Media Specialist Ms. Kali Spoelstra emphatically shared that her favorite part of the whole performance is “obviously SANTA.”
As Thanksgiving Day makes its way on the calendar, everyone is preparing to either watch the parade with family from home as they set up the dinner table or to wake up bright and early for the perfect spot to see the parade in person.
“We usually watch part of the parade and then watch the dog show followed by lots and lots of football!” Ms. Valerie Gawron shared.
As we get ready for the big turkey day feast ahead, the Lancer Ledger wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving with your family and loved ones!
