What to Know About the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Every Thanksgiving, New Yorkers and tourists look forward to the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. After scaling down the celebration last year due to COVID-19, the Parade is returning for its 95th year this Thursday, November 25 with its traditional 2.5-mile route from the Upper West Side to Midtown.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at West 77th Street and Central Park West at 9:00am and makes it way down Central Park West through Columbus Circle before turning down Central Park South and heading into Midtown. Click here to view the full route. There is no vaccination requirement to watch the Parade in-person this year, though spectators are encouraged to wear masks. Many streets will be closed due to the Parade. View the full list of street closures from the NYPD here and NYC Department of Transportation here.

The Macy’s Pre-Parade Balloon-Inflation event is also back on Wednesday, November 24 from 12:00pm – 6:00pm. To attend the Balloon Inflation Celebration, guests must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and a photo ID. A negative test will not be accepted in lieu of vaccinated status. Children under 12 years old may attend with a fully vaccinated adult. Attendees are encouraged to social distance & masks will be required at all times. Entry is at West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue.

Click here for more information on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. To receive updates on the Parade and Balloon Inflation event from NYC Emergency Management's Notify NYC in English or Spanish, text THANKSGIVING or THXGIVINGESP to 693692.

Photo credit: Macy's