Whether you’re taking a bite out of the Big Apple for the first time or are a returning traveler starting a new Thanksgiving tradition, you’ll find these tips and tricks on the whipped cream to your pumpkin pie.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2022 is undoubtedly a beloved NYC tradition as well as the kickoff to the Holidays decorations. The 96th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to be held on November 24th, 2022 in New York City, and will be shown to viewers live on NBC that same day from 9 a.m. to 12 noon EST. It will be hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker. Participating guest stars include Ziggy Marley, Joss Stone, Fitz, and the Tantrums, Gloria Estefan, Jordin Sparks, and Betty Who.
The balloons in the Macy’s parade have evolved over the years featuring beloved cartoon characters. This year’s parade will feature new balloons such as Bluey, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dino and baby Dino, and Stuart the Mignon. Start to be familiar with the “Lineup” meaning and categories.
The 2022 lineup is divided into Ballons with Giant Ballons: Ada Twist, Snoopy Astronaut, Bluey, The Boss Baby, Chase, Pikachu, and many more, than Heritage Ballons, Novelty Ballons, Ballonicles, Flots, marching bands, and performers.
Where to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
There are 2.5 miles of public viewing along the NYC route this year. Get up early and try to be there by 6.30-7 am!
- Kickoff on West 77th Street & Central Park West at 9 am ET.West 77th Street & Central Park West at 9 am ET. No (or limited) public viewing here.
- Central Park West: Early risers arrive starting at 6 am ET on the west side of Central Park West from West 75th to West 61st. Streets. Great views can be found along this stretch. Please note no public viewing on Central Park West between West 59th & West 60th Streets.
- Columbus Circle: The Parade turns here onto Central Park South. No public viewing here.
- Central Park South & 6th Avenue: The Parade heads south onto 6th Avenue. Find a spot on 6th Avenue (one of the best we always go to is on 53rd and 6th, right where the televisions and Starbucks are! You will love to get something warm in the meantime.
- If the budget is not a problem find a good Hotel with a view of the Macy’s Parade route like a Hilton, Mandarin Hotel, Warwick Hotels, or Marriott.
Where not to watch the parade!
‼️Avoid watching on 6th Avenue between West 34th & West 38th Streets & on West 34th Street between 6th & 7th Avenues. The national television broadcast limits viewing here and The Parade makes its final turn & stops in front of Macy’s Herald Square. No public viewing here.
Get a Sneak Peek of the Ballons ( Thanksgiving Eve Balloon Inflating 2022)
Take in views of your favorite balloons before they even make an appearance in the parade Watching Macy’s Parade balloons come to life in person is quite an experience. A tradition since 1927, the giant balloons—featuring beloved pop culture characters—are slowly inflated in the streets. Starting at 3 p.m. the day before Thanksgiving, you can watch several of the balloons being inflated right outside of the American Museum of Natural History (77th and 81st Streets, between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue). Enter at West 72nd and Columbus Avenue.
Be advised that Large backpacks, coolers, alcoholic beverages, chairs, and umbrellas are expressly prohibited and participants will be screened before entering the viewing route. It’s a free event. For both days! Dress in layers as temperatures may cool down.
On Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade website you can find history and funny facts as well as stem project and printable of your favorite ballon to color!!
Where are you spending your Thanksgiving? And please add any info that we left out, in the comment section