Everything to Know About the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade — Performers, Balloons & More!

The holiday season is about to kick off in the most spectacular way possible. The 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is returning to New York City on November 27 — and this year’s celebration promises to be one of the biggest yet. From show-stopping performances to brand-new balloons, floats, and star-studded appearances, the beloved holiday tradition is pulling out all the stops.

“Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the official kickoff to the holiday season and has been part of the nation’s stories and traditions for generations,” said Will Coss, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade executive producer. “The most wonderful stories start at the Parade. On Thanksgiving morning, larger-than-life character balloons, awe-inspiring floats and showstopping performances will create unforgettable moments and lasting holiday memories for millions of spectators in New York City and across the country.”

With more than 5,000 volunteers, 32 balloons, 27 floats, 33 clown groups, and 11 marching bands, this year’s event is set to deliver pure joy from start to finish. More than 31 million viewers tuned in last year — and with this lineup, that number might just climb higher.

Who’s Hosting?

NBC’s Today trio Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker will once again take the reins, joined by Hoda Kotb, who’s making her return to the broadcast after stepping away from the network earlier this year. The parade will air live on NBC and Peacock beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET, giving fans across the country front-row access to the magic.

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Who’s Performing?

The musical lineup reads like a pop culture dream. Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters cast — Audrey Nuna, EJAE and Rei Ami — will perform as the fictional girl group HUNTR/X, straight from the hit series.

Other major performers include Ciara, Colbie Caillat, Gavin DeGraw, Matteo Bocelli, Mickey Guyton, Lil Jon, Kool & the Gang, Darlene Love, Jewel, Busta Rhymes, Foreigner, Shaggy and Teyana Taylor — among others. Broadway stars Meg Donnelly and Christopher Jackson will also be performing on the stage.

Character Balloons

Get ready to look up — way up. Brand-new balloons joining the lineup include Buzz Lightyear (Toy Story), PAC-MAN, Mario (Super Mario Bros.), and an enormous 32-foot Shrek onion carriage featuring eight fan-favorite characters. Classic favorites like Rainbow Trout, Wigglefoot, and Freida the Dachshund will also make their return.

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Floats

This year’s debut floats are as imaginative as ever. Highlights include The Land of Ice & Wonder (Holland America), Brick-tastic Winter Mountain (LEGO), Master Chocolatier Ballroom (Lindt), Upside Down Invasion: Stranger Things (Netflix), Friends-giving in POPCITY (Pop Mart), and The Counting Sheep’s Dream Generator (Serta).

Longtime fans can also expect updated legacy designs and fun new collaborations like the Goldfish Crackers float and Elf on the Shelf’s Santaverse.

Marching Bands & Broadway

Marching bands from across the country — and even Panama — will bring big energy to the streets of Manhattan, alongside the NYPD Marching Band. Broadway will also shine, with performances from the casts of Buena Vista Social Club, Just in Time and Ragtime.

What Else?

The legendary Radio City Rockettes, celebrating their 100th year, will take center stage once again, joined by EVIDENCE Dance Company, Native Pride Productions, Circus Vazquez, and A Chorus Line: The Next Generation, led by original cast member Baayork Lee. More than 1,200 dancers and cheerleaders from Spirit of America Dance and Cheer will round out the grand spectacle.