Parade performers lead the Tom Turkey float down Central Park West at the start of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in New York on Nov. 28 2024. (AP Photo)
The holiday season is about to shine brighter as the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade returns with a star-packed lineup and new surprises for viewers around the world.
This year’s celebration will feature music icons, Broadway performers, pop sensations, and beloved animated characters, promising a spectacle filled with color, cheer, and nostalgia.
Big Names, Bigger Energy
A diverse roster of performers — including Ciara, Foreigner, Lil Jon, Kool & the Gang, Busta Rhymes, Mickey Guyton, and Teyana Taylor — will bring their energy to the streets of New York City.
Adding to the excitement, the parade will celebrate the cultural buzz around Netflix’s hit film KPop Demon Hunters. Singers Audrey Nuna, EJAE, and Rei Ami, who form the fictional girl group HUNTR/X in the movie, are set to perform live. Their soundtrack recently topped the Billboard 200 chart and went platinum, cementing the film’s pop-culture impact.
Meanwhile, two fan-favorite characters from the movie — Derpy Tiger and Sussie — will soar above the crowds as part of the parade’s new balloon lineup.
A Parade Like No Other
The 98th edition of the parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. on November 27 across all time zones, airing live on NBC and Peacock. The broadcast will once again be hosted by Today Show favorites Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker.
The Macy’s Great American Marching Band heading down Sixth Avenue during Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade on Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo)
Spectators can expect a dazzling display featuring 32 giant balloons, three “ballonicles” (balloon-vehicle hybrids), 27 floats, 33 clown groups, and 11 marching bands — all leading the grand arrival of Santa Claus.
Broadway, Balloons, and Buzz Lightyear
Broadway will have a strong presence this year with performances from the casts of Buena Vista Social Club, Just in Time, and Ragtime. The Radio City Rockettes are set to return, joined by figure skating champion Ilia Malinin and Paralympian Jack Wallace.
Four new character balloons will make their debut — including Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, Mario from Super Mario Brothers, and a whimsical 32-foot-tall onion carriage inspired by Shrek.
In honor of next year’s 100th anniversary of the parade, several classic balloons are making a comeback, including Rainbow Trout, Happy Hippo Triple Stack, Wigglefoot, and Freida the Dachshund.
Snoopy Balloon down Sixth Avenue during Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade on Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo)
New Floats and Familiar Faces
This year’s parade will also introduce six brand-new floats from brands like Lego, Lindt Chocolates, Holland America Line, Stranger Things, and Serta, which brings a playful display of sheep trying to fall asleep.
The music lineup will feature a mix of generations and genres — from Jewel and Debbie Gibson to Colbie Caillat, Gavin DeGraw, Darlene Love, Calum Scott, and Shaggy. Other confirmed artists include Matteo Bocelli, Lauren Spencer Smith, Meg Donnelly, Roman Mejia, and Luísa Sonza.
A Thanksgiving Tradition That Endures
Every year, thousands of spectators line the streets of Manhattan, while millions more tune in from home. Last year’s broadcast drew more than 31 million viewers — the largest audience in the parade’s history.
With its blend of nostalgia, fresh talent, and festive spirit, the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises another unforgettable start to the holiday season.
