About
See the parade balloons inflated at eye level the day before — free, no ticket.
This is the better half of the Macy's tradition and almost nobody plans for it. You walk past the balloons half-inflated and pinned under netting, at eye level, instead of watching them pass four storeys up. It is free, it is walkable, and it is far calmer than parade morning — though it has grown popular enough to warrant arriving early.
What to expect
A walking route past the inflating balloons and floats near the American Museum of Natural History, entered through a security checkpoint, running five hours.
Good to know
- Enter via the checkpoint at West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue
- The line opens at 12pm; viewing runs 1pm to 6pm
- Free, no tickets — bags are subject to search
- The B/C to 72nd St is the closest subway
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
When is the balloon inflation?
The day before Thanksgiving — Wednesday November 25, 2026 — with viewing from 1pm to 6pm.
Do I need a ticket?
No. It is free and open to the public, entered through a security checkpoint at West 72nd and Columbus.
Is it better than the parade itself?
Different — you see the balloons close up and at eye level rather than passing overhead, and the crowd is smaller.