Best moments from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Thanksgiving traditions were once again on full display as the 98th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade filled the streets of Manhattan with cheer, music, and dazzling spectacles. Broadcast live to millions across the country, this year’s event balanced innovation with nostalgia, showcasing vibrant floats, world-class performances, and memorable moments.

A Tradition of Joy and Wonder

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a cornerstone of American holiday culture since its inception in 1924. With its mix of giant balloons, elaborate floats, and show-stopping performances, the event celebrates the season and captures the essence of Thanksgiving. This year’s parade took place on Thursday, November 28, 2024, starting at Manhattan’s Upper West Side and concluding at Macy’s Herald Square.

As in previous years, the parade was broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock, with hosts Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker adding their signature charm to the broadcast.

Highlights from the 2024 Parade

Spectacular Floats and Giant Balloons

This year’s lineup included 22 floats and 17 giant balloons, each uniquely designed to amaze. Among the most talked-about floats were:

Netflix’s ‘Wednesday’ Float: This float featured meticulously sculpted figures of Wednesday Addams and her brother Pugsley. The design, which took over 100 hours to complete, was topped off with a performance by singer Bishop Briggs, who delivered a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Paint It Black.

Paw Patrol’s Marshall Balloon: Making its debut, the towering balloon of Marshall the Dalmatian delighted young fans. Measuring twice the size of a standard firetruck, it was a standout addition.

Spider-Man Returns: The Amazing Spider-Man balloon made a grand comeback after more than a decade, swinging through Manhattan at a height of 44 feet.

Memorable Performances

The musical acts at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade are always a major draw, and 2024 was no exception.

T-Pain delivered a dynamic medley of hits, including Good Life and All I Do Is Win, while riding the Jennie-O golden turkey float. His high-energy performance added a touch of fun and flair to the parade.

Jennifer Hudson and Kylie Minogue brought star power with soulful and upbeat numbers that resonated with the festive spirit.

Broadway productions also took center stage. Highlights included performances from Death Becomes Her and Hell’s Kitchen, with the Radio City Rockettes dazzling the crowd with their perfectly synchronized routines.

Singer Chlöe captivated audiences with a heartfelt performance, while The Temptations brought Motown magic to the streets.

Unforgettable Moments

The 2024 parade was filled with heartwarming moments that touched audiences everywhere:

Hoda Kotb’s Farewell: Co-host Hoda Kotb, a beloved figure in the Macy’s Parade broadcast team, marked her final year as a host. During a touching segment, Cynthia Erivo presented Kotb with a bouquet of flowers, thanking her for her years of dedication. The emotional moment was a reminder of the sense of community and gratitude that the parade embodies.

Broadway’s Impact: This year featured a groundbreaking partnership with renowned choreographer Shay Latukolan, who added unique dance sequences to the parade’s choreography. This artistic addition elevated the visual storytelling of the floats and performances.

Santa Claus arrives: As is tradition, the parade concluded with the arrival of Santa Claus. His appearance, accompanied by a beautifully decorated sled, signaled the official start of the holiday season, leaving children and adults alike with a sense of joy and wonder.

The Parade Experience: Where and How to Watch

For those fortunate enough to witness the event in person, the parade began at Central Park West and concluded at Macy’s Herald Square. Attendees braved the chilly weather to line the streets and catch a glimpse of the action.

For audiences at home, the parade aired live on NBC and Peacock, with encore presentations available later in the day. Spanish-language viewers tuned in to Telemundo’s simulcast, making it a truly inclusive celebration.

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Magic

Creating a spectacle like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade involves months of planning and meticulous attention to detail. Each float and balloon represents hours of work by skilled artisans, engineers, and performers.

The process of inflating the balloons is itself an event, with “Balloon Inflation Night” drawing large crowds on Thanksgiving Eve. This behind-the-scenes tradition has become a favorite pre-parade activity for locals and tourists alike.

The 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade delivered a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and joy. From awe-inspiring floats to star-studded performances, it captured the essence of the holiday season and brought people together in celebration. Whether viewed from the streets of New York or the comfort of home, the parade served as a reminder of the beauty of community and the spirit of Thanksgiving. If you missed the live broadcast, be sure to catch the encore and relive the magic!