The 2025 edition of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade arrives like a bright brass fanfare at dawn—lifting the nation into the holiday season with its 99th year of color, music, and sky-high whimsy. You can practically feel New York breathing a little deeper as the balloons rise.
This year brings the full spectacle: towering character balloons drifting between skyscrapers, floats shimmering like storybook illustrations, marching bands pounding out crisp rhythms, dancers swirling in the morning chill, and a lineup of performers ready to shake the frost right off the day.
When & Where
The parade steps off on Thursday, November 27, 2025, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern. The route starts at 77th Street and Central Park West, winds past Columbus Circle, glides along Central Park South, then marches down Sixth Avenue before reaching its grand finale at Herald Square.
If you're lucky enough to be watching in person, bundle up, grab a thermos, and claim your curbside real estate early—the city loves this parade, and the crowd shows it.
How to Watch
If you're celebrating from home, it’s delightfully simple:
- On TV: NBC broadcasts the parade live starting at 8:30 a.m.
- Streaming: The entire event also streams live on Peacock.
- Encore: Missed it? A replay airs at 2 p.m. ET/PT so you can still soak in the magic between pie rounds.
The Vibe
Expect over-the-top joy, carefully choreographed chaos, and that unmistakable holiday electricity. The 99th year sets the stage for the centennial celebration just ahead—not just a parade, but a promise of brighter days, cozy traditions, and a season that always finds a way to sparkle.
