A hundred years of handlers wrestling multi-story balloons past Midtown office towers, with brass bands, Broadway numbers and Santa closing the whole thing out at Herald Square. This is the centennial edition, so expect Macy's to lean hard on its own history alongside the current balloon lineup. If you have kids or out-of-town guests, this is the one New York morning where standing on a cold sidewalk is unarguably worth it.
What to expect
Deep crowds on Central Park West and along Sixth Avenue, police barricades, and long stretches where you see balloons before you hear the bands. Herald Square itself is credentialed and closed to general spectators, so the public view is the walking route. Families claim curb space hours ahead of the first balloon.
Good to know
- The Herald Square finish is reserved for ticketed and credentialed guests; the public watches from the route
- Central Park West between the low 70s and 60s is the classic free viewing stretch
- Arrive very early to get a curb spot, and bring a folding stool or blanket
- Public restrooms are effectively nonexistent along the route; plan around it
- Subway is far easier than driving; street closures ripple across the West Side
- Bring hand warmers and layers, and expect to stand still in the cold
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Common questions
Is the parade free to watch?
Yes, from public sidewalks along the route. Only the Herald Square grandstand area is restricted to credentialed guests.
Can I watch it on TV instead?
Macy's says the 100th parade will be covered on NBC and Peacock.
More this weekend
