The 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking its 98th iteration, was a spectacular celebration of holiday spirit, tradition, and entertainment. Held on November 28, 2024, the parade started at 8:30 a.m. ET and lasted approximately 3.5 hours, running from Manhattan’s Upper West Side to Macy’s iconic Herald Square store. The event was broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock, with special accessibility features like audio descriptions for visually impaired viewers, ensuring an inclusive experience for all participants.
Highlights of the Parade
Balloons and Floats
The 2024 parade featured an impressive collection of 17 giant character balloons, including new additions such as:
- Minnie Mouse
- Goku from Dragon Ball
- Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse
- Spider-Man
- Marshall from PAW Patrol
In addition to balloons, six new floats debuted, including:
- Candy Cosmos by Haribo
- Magic Meets the Seas by Disney Cruise Line
- Dora’s Fantastical Rainforest by Nickelodeon and Paramount
- Masterfeast by Netflix
- Wondrous World of Wildlife by the Bronx Zoo
The floats brought whimsical and innovative designs to life, captivating millions of spectators both in person and on screens.
Performances and Entertainment
This year’s parade boasted a star-studded lineup of performers. Highlights included:
- Jennifer Hudson, who brought powerful vocals to the festivities.
- Billy Porter, known for his dynamic stage presence.
- Kylie Minogue, who added a touch of pop elegance.
- Dan + Shay, contributing country music vibes.
Broadway also had a significant presence, with performances from musicals like Death Becomes Her, Hell’s Kitchen, and The Outsiders. The legendary Radio City Rockettes dazzled audiences with their precision dance routines, continuing their longstanding tradition at the parade.
Additional entertainers included international stars like Sebastián Yatra, T-Pain, and Idina Menzel. Dance performances by groups led by choreographer Shay Latukolan added vibrant energy to the event.
Hosts and Guests
Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker from NBC’s TODAY show returned as hosts, adding their warmth and charm to the broadcast. Special guests included members of the WNBA champions New York Liberty and appearances from beloved characters like Santa Claus and Tom Turkey.
Tradition and Innovation
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is renowned for blending tradition with contemporary elements. Its signature character balloons, such as Snoopy and Pikachu, continued to enchant children and adults alike, while new additions and pop culture icons ensured the parade remained relevant for younger audiences. The event’s intricate planning and execution involved over 700 clowns, 11 marching bands, and a plethora of volunteer support.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
This year, the parade made strides in accessibility by offering live audio descriptions for visually impaired viewers, enhancing the inclusivity of the event. These features underscore Macy’s commitment to creating a parade that all Americans can enjoy.
Viewing and Attendance
Millions tuned in to the broadcast on NBC and Peacock, with an encore presentation airing later in the day. Thousands of spectators lined the streets of New York City to witness the parade live, braving the crisp autumn weather for a front-row seat to the holiday magic.
Closing Notes
The 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade reaffirmed its status as a beloved American tradition. It combined a rich history with fresh innovations, providing entertainment for all generations. With its iconic floats, incredible performances, and meticulous production, the parade continues to be a hallmark of Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States.
For more detailed information about the parade, you can visit sources like NBC or Brand Vision, which provide comprehensive coverage and additional insights.
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