Macys BannerHoliday traditions in NYC usually include a visit to the Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The first parade was in 1924, and originally known as the Macy’s Christmas Parade featuring animals from the Central Park Zoo. In 1927 the parade debuted its signature giant balloons, including Felix the Cat, the first ever character balloon.

This year the lineup features 15 giant character balloons; 37 large- scale, novelty/ornament balloons, balloonicles, balloonheads and trycaloons; 30 floats; 1,600 cheerleaders and dancers; 900 clowns; 11 marching bands; and a host of celebrity performers. The parade was first televised locally in 1946 and nationally in 1947.

The Parade Route: The 9a kickoff is at 77th St. and Central Park West. The parade turns at Columbus Circle onto Central Park South. The parade veers south onto 6th Avenue. The final turn will be onto 34th St, and will end in front of Macy’s Herald Square.

FiDi Families Insiders: Avoid watching from 6th Avenue between 34th and 38th Streets, and Macy’s Herald Square, where the cameras are filming performers.

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