Turkey Day 2019 is quickly approaching, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is a tradition for many families.
» RELATED: The ultimate insider's guide the Macy's Thanksgiving parade
Since 1924, thousands have flocked the New York City streets to watch marching bands, floats and celebrities participate in the festivities.
However, there’s a chance this year could be a bit different. Officials are keeping a close key on the windy weather forecast, which would impact whether the high-flying balloons are able to soar above the streets.
CNN reports that the characters will have to stay on the ground if sustained winds reach more than 23 mph with gusts higher than 34 mph, per city law.
Officials will make a game time decision on the balloons. If they are grounded, it would be the first time they haven't flown since 1971, according to The New York Times.
"Spectacle is synonymous with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and each year we aim to create an even bigger one than the last, with incredible must-see entertainment for millions of spectators nationwide," Susan Tercero, executive producer of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, said in a statement.
“Featuring an amazing line-up of high-flying character balloons, jaw-dropping animated floats, world-class marching bands and performance groups, artists covering a variety of musical genres, and of course, the one-and-only Santa Claus, we are ‘Parade Ready’ and can’t wait to take to the streets of New York City to once again herald the arrival of the holiday season.”
Want to know how to prepare for 93rd annual event? Here’s everything you should know.
When is it?
The parade will take place on Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, Nov. 28 in Manhattan. It kicks off at 9 a.m. EST on 77th St. and Central Park West and ends around noon near Herald Square. Take a look at the route map here.
How can I watch?
If you're not able to make it to NYC, there are plenty of ways to watch from the comfort of your home. The show will air live on NBC. You can also catch it on NBC's website or on YouTube.
The TODAY Show’s Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb and Al Roker will host the broadcast.
» RELATED: Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade floats through the years
Who is performing?
Ciara, Idina Menzel, Kelly Rowland, Lea Michele, Ozuna, TLC, Chris Young, Chicago, Black Eyed Peas and Billy Porter are all set to perform.
How many floats will be in the parade?
This year, there will be 16 giant character balloons; 40 novelty balloons, heritage balloons, balloonicles, balloonheads and trycaloons; 26 floats; 1,200 cheerleaders and dancers; more than 1,000 clowns; and 11 marching bands, according to a press release.
What’s new this year?
Astronaut Snoopy in a NASA uniform will be joining the lineup of balloons this year, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. There will also be a new Green Eggs and Ham balloon and a SpongeBob SquarePants and Gary balloon. In celebration of his 75th birthday, Smokey Bear will once again float over Manhattan for the first time since 1993.
What else should I know?
Visit macys.com/parade for regular updates, including behind-the-scenes previews, interactive historical information, and more. Also, follow #MacysParade to keep up with the conversation.
About the Author
