NEW YORK (AP) — The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off Thursday in New York City, with new balloons depicting Buzz Lightyear and Pac-Man set to grace the skies, alongside floats featuring Labubu and Lego. Scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. EST, rain or shine, the parade will make its way through Manhattan's Upper West Side, culminating at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store on 34th Street.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the weather is expected to be chilly, with temperatures in the 40s accompanied by wind gusts between 25 mph (40 kph) and 30 mph (48 kph) that may feel even colder. Authorities are closely monitoring conditions, especially since city laws prohibit the flying of full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph (37 kph) or wind gusts surpass 35 mph (56 kph). The last time balloons were grounded was back in 1971, though some have flown lower than usual in windy conditions.
On Thursday morning, the police will make final assessments regarding balloon adjustments, stated Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, adding that while there are no known credible threats to the event, a robust presence of police officers will be stationed along the parade route.
In recent years, the parade has been a focal point for protests, notably by pro-Palestinian groups, which have raised concerns about security. Authorities affirm they are prepared to address any disturbances as they arise.
The parade will showcase a multitude of performances, featuring acts from ‘Wicked’ star Cynthia Erivo, along with music from artists like Conan Gray, Dancers, and bands. It will also include a special representation of characters from ‘Shrek’ flying high in the form of a large onion carriage.
The event will air on NBC, hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Hoda Kotb, and will be available for streaming on NBC’s Peacock service.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the weather is expected to be chilly, with temperatures in the 40s accompanied by wind gusts between 25 mph (40 kph) and 30 mph (48 kph) that may feel even colder. Authorities are closely monitoring conditions, especially since city laws prohibit the flying of full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph (37 kph) or wind gusts surpass 35 mph (56 kph). The last time balloons were grounded was back in 1971, though some have flown lower than usual in windy conditions.
On Thursday morning, the police will make final assessments regarding balloon adjustments, stated Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, adding that while there are no known credible threats to the event, a robust presence of police officers will be stationed along the parade route.
In recent years, the parade has been a focal point for protests, notably by pro-Palestinian groups, which have raised concerns about security. Authorities affirm they are prepared to address any disturbances as they arise.
The parade will showcase a multitude of performances, featuring acts from ‘Wicked’ star Cynthia Erivo, along with music from artists like Conan Gray, Dancers, and bands. It will also include a special representation of characters from ‘Shrek’ flying high in the form of a large onion carriage.
The event will air on NBC, hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Hoda Kotb, and will be available for streaming on NBC’s Peacock service.
