About
Macy's marks its 100th parade, walking helium character balloons and marching bands down Central Park West to Herald Square on Thanksgiving morning.
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
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
Is the parade free to watch?
Yes. Public spectators can watch the parade from the route without buying a ticket.
What is special about the 2026 parade?
The 2026 event is the 100th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and includes 100 inflatables in its centennial lineup.
What will be in the parade?
Macy's lists giant balloons, floats, entertainers, and a tribute to parade visionary Tony Sarg among the centennial features.
How many people watch in person?
Macy's says more than 3.5 million spectators watch in New York City each year.