Macy's 100th Parade Sets Record With 100 Balloons
Seven new characters join a historic lineup that includes a return for Underdog and a 76-foot Christmas tree arrival.
By Harper Collins ·
A record 100 inflatables will float down the New York City streets for the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The event marks a century of the tradition, which has been a fixture of the city’s holiday season since 1924.
Workers at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, unveiled and tested the new character balloons on November 7. The test group included seven giant additions that have never been part of the parade before. Among them is Joe Cool, the alter ego of Snoopy, who will wear oversized sunglasses and a red sweater. Bluey, a character from the animated preschool series, will appear wearing a gold crown inspired by Christmas crackers.
Will Coss, the executive producer for the parade, stated that the team faces a yearly challenge to introduce brand-new characters. He noted that each balloon must be immediately recognizable and impactful to the audience. The lineup also features established favorites such as Bullwinkle J. Moose, Olive Oyl, Popeye, Swee’Pea, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
Underdog makes its first appearance since 1984, marking a 42-year gap in its parade history. Other new entrants include Buckaroo Bob the Minion from the Despicable Me franchise and Hello Kitty Big Apple. Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse will join the group, which represents the 21st appearance of a Mickey balloon in the event’s history. Billie Brightpaw, an original character from the early days of the parade, also returns to the lineup.
The centennial celebration extends beyond the street procession. A float will honor Tony Sarg, the artist who helped create the original puppets and floats for the event in the 1920s. The parade will air live on NBC and stream on Peacock. Macy’s has released a commemorative book titled Let's Have a Parade: Celebrating 100 Macy’s Parades, alongside exclusive product collaborations.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has arrived in New York City. The 76-foot Norway spruce weighs 11 tons and will be decorated with 50,000 lights. The televised lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 2.
