Get Ready for Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade 2025

There’s no place like New York City during the holidays — and there’s nothing quite like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to kick it all off. Colorful floats, giant balloons, marching bands, celebrity performances, and millions of spectators create one of the most iconic events of the year.

Every November, millions of people from across the country — and around the world — turn their eyes toward New York City for one of the most beloved holiday traditions in America: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Whether you're watching from the sidewalk with a hot coffee in hand, or curled up on the couch with family, the parade is pure holiday joy.

If you’re planning to experience the magic in person this year, Hotel Beacon on the Upper West Side offers one of the best locations to soak in all the excitement — especially since the parade begins just a few blocks away!

A Brief History of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marched down the streets of Manhattan in 1924, making this year’s parade the 99th edition of the holiday spectacle.

Back then, the parade was created by Macy’s employees — many of whom were first-generation immigrants — as a way to celebrate their new American culture with influences from their home countries. The original procession featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo, along with floats, bands, and store employees dressed in costume.

The parade was such a hit that it became an annual event. And while the animals were eventually swapped for larger-than-life balloons (thank you, Felix the Cat in 1927!), the core idea remained the same: to bring joy and welcome the start of the holiday season in true New York fashion.

What Makes the Parade So Special?

What started as a small community event has now become one of the most-watched television events in the U.S., with more than 3.5 million spectators lining the streets of Manhattan and over 50 million viewers tuning in from home.

Here’s what keeps people coming back year after year:

The Iconic Giant Balloons

From classic characters like Snoopy, Pikachu, and Spider-Man to newer favorites and pop culture icons, the giant helium balloons are a highlight of the parade. These balloons can be as tall as a six-story building and require dozens of handlers to guide them down the streets.

Floats, Marching Bands & Performances

Dozens of themed floats bring stories to life with moving parts, dancers, and celebrity appearances. Marching bands from around the country are invited to perform, and Broadway casts often join the show with live numbers right in front of Macy’s Herald Square.

The Grand Finale

No Macy’s Parade is complete without the arrival of Santa Claus, officially ushering in the holiday season. The jolly man in red rides his sleigh through Manhattan as the grand finale — and that’s when the magic of the holidays really begins.

The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade: What to Expect

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025

Time: Parade begins at 8:30 AM EST and ends around noon

Route:

Starts at 77th Street & Central Park West

Heads south to Columbus Circle

Turns onto 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas)

Ends at Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street

The entire route stretches about 2.5 miles, with the best public viewing spots typically between 75th and 59th Streets on Central Park West.

Parade Eve: The Balloon Inflation

One of the most underrated (and delightful) parts of the event happens the night before, right in Hotel Beacon’s neighborhood — the Upper West Side. The Balloon Inflation event takes place around the American Museum of Natural History from 1 PM to 8 PM on Wednesday, November 26.

Here, you can watch the massive parade balloons come to life. It’s free, family-friendly, and truly magical to see up close — especially for kids. Best of all? If you’re staying at Hotel Beacon, it’s just a short walk away!

Tips for Watching the Parade in Person

If 2025 is your first time attending in person, here are a few pro tips:

1. Get There Early

Crowds start forming as early as 5:30–6:00 AM. The earlier you arrive, the better your viewing spot will be — especially along Central Park West, just a short walk from Hotel Beacon.

2. Dress Up Warm

Late November in NYC can be chilly (and sometimes windy), so dress in layers. Think hats, gloves, thermals, and waterproof shoes.

3. Pack Snacks and Entertainment

You’ll be standing for a few hours, so bring snacks, water, and maybe even a foldable stool. Portable phone chargers are also a good idea.

4. Avoid Midtown If You Can

The area around Herald Square gets extremely congested and is often closed off to the general public. Stick to viewing spots further uptown for a better experience — another reason Hotel Beacon’s location is ideal.

Ready to book your 2025 parade getaway?

Located on Broadway and West 75th Street, Hotel Beacon sits in the heart of the Upper West Side — one of Manhattan’s most charming, walkable neighborhoods. Here’s why it’s the perfect choice for Thanksgiving parade-goers:

Walking Distance to Parade Start

You're just a few short blocks from the parade kickoff on 77th Street. You can sleep a bit longer, skip the subway, and still get a prime spot.

Spacious Rooms with Kitchenettes

Hotel Beacon’s rooms and suites are among the most spacious in Manhattan — and every room includes a kitchenette, ideal for prepping your own breakfast before the parade or warming up leftovers afterward.

Perfect for Families

If you're traveling with kids or in a group, the hotel’s suite options provide plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax after a busy day in the city.

Quiet & Comfortable

Hotel Beacon offers a quieter, more residential vibe — but still with immediate access to everything you need.

Extend Your Stay & Enjoy the City

While the parade might be the highlight, New York City during Thanksgiving weekend is full of festive fun:

Holiday window displays debut all over 5th Avenue

Ice skating rinks open in Central Park and Rockefeller Center

Black Friday shopping kicks off in SoHo, Columbus Circle & beyond

Cozy up at Upper West Side cafés and restaurants for post-parade meals or hot chocolate

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than just a New York event — it’s an American tradition that brings families together and marks the joyful start of the holiday season. Whether it’s your first time or a long-standing tradition, experiencing it in person is unforgettable. So, reserve your room at Hotel Beacon today — and get ready to witness one of the greatest shows on Earth, right outside your door. Additionally explore our offers and save on your holiday stay.