The 99ᵗʰ Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025

Every autumn, New York City hosts one of its most iconic events: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. In 2025, the parade celebrates its 99ᵗʰ edition, featuring giant balloons, extravagant floats, live performances, and millions of spectators — whether in the streets of Manhattan or watching from home. Here’s everything you need to know to follow or attend the event.

Date, Time & Broadcast

• Date:

Thursday, November 27, 2025

• Time:

Starts at 8:30 AM (ET) and runs until around 12:00 PM

• Broadcast:

Live on NBC and streaming on Peacock, with a replay at 2:00 PM (ET/PT)

• TV Hosts:

Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Hoda Kotb will be the familiar voices guiding the broadcast

Route & Viewing Spots

• Starting Point:

77th Street & Central Park West, Upper West Side

• Route:

Down Central Park West → Columbus Circle → east along Central Park South → down Sixth Avenue → ending at Macy’s Herald Square (34th Street & 7th Ave)

• Total Distance:

Approximately 2.5 miles (~4 km)

• Best Viewing Spots:

Early morning (around 6 AM) for prime spots along Central Park West (roughly W 75th – W 61st Streets)

Sixth Avenue between W 59th and W 38th Streets for the parade’s descent toward Midtown

What Makes the 2025 Parade Special

Highlights and new features for this 99ᵗʰ edition:

• Balloons & Characters:

32 giant balloons, 3 “balloonicles” (balloons on wheels), 27 floats, 4 specialty units, 33 clown groups, 11 marching bands, and many performance groups

• This Year’s New Balloons:

For the first time, Buzz Lightyear (Pixar), Pac-Man (Bandai Namco), Mario (Nintendo), and the Shrek’s Onion Carriage float (DreamWorks) will be featured

• Classics:

Fan favorites like Snoopy, Pikachu, and other themed floats continue to march along the route

• Performances & Guests:

Musical artists, Broadway performers, and live acts keep the parade lively from start to finish

Practical Tips

• Arrive Early:

Spectators often start lining up at 6 AM to secure a good viewing spot

• Transport:

Subway or public transit is recommended — streets are closed to traffic

• Travel Light:

Avoid large bags or umbrellas, which can block access or slow entry

• Dress for the Weather:

Late November in New York can be chilly, so bundle up

• Alternative Viewing:

If you can’t attend in person, watch the live broadcast or replay on NBC / Peacock for a comfortable viewing experience

Why the 2025 Parade is Worth Watching

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025 is more than a festive parade — it’s a true cultural experience. From the magic of iconic balloons to new pop culture surprises and the gradual arrival of the holiday season, this edition blends nostalgia, innovation, and spectacle. Whether you’re in the crowd or enjoying it from home, the parade promises a moment that is both spectacular and heartwarming.

If you're spending fall in New York and looking for warm, relaxing ways to enjoy the season, don’t miss our next guide: Cozy Indoor Activities for Fall in NYC. From cafés to museums to snug hideaways perfect for chilly days, it’s your go-to list for staying cozy in the city.

Image by: Sean Ingram/pexels

Written by Laura

Creator of Live Your Dreams Fully, a website exploring everyday experiences, culture, and storytelling inspired by New York.