It’s Thanksgiving morning in New York City. Giant balloons float across the sky as the streets buzz with excitement, and music echoes through the city streets as holiday magic fills the air. It’s the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! What began as a simple parade is now America’s most beloved Thanksgiving tradition. People from all across the country visit New York City to take part in this cherished celebration. But the question is, how did this iconic festivity begin?
The Origin of The Parade
This fantastic parade started in 1924, known as the “Macy’s Christmas Parade,” which was created by employees to celebrate the holiday season. This parade was used mostly as a set off to all the seasonal sales and to promote the new Herald Square store. In the parade, there were floats, bands, and animals from the
Central Park Zoo. The parade ended with a classical Santa Claus to begin the holiday season, and with the parade being so successful, Macy’s announced it would now be an annual event, such as the one we see today. Of course, later on in 1927, it was turned into a Thanksgiving parade.
Why Is The Parade Held In New York City?
Our beloved Thanksgiving Parade is held in New York City because it was born there! The very first parade was held from its headquarters, Macy’s Herald Square. Every year, the parade takes place in front of its doors. Since the grand release of the Macy’s flagship store was coming to Grand Square, they believed it would be a perfect place to host the parade. Another reason why this fabulous parade was held in New York was because of the setting. The employees who set up the event thought the classic city setting would be perfect for the holiday season!
Significance of The Parade Visuals
If you have ever attended the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you would have seen the fantastic parade visuals. Some include giant balloons, drifts, talent groups, etcetera. But have you ever wondered what it really means? Why do they have the balloons and the characters in the parade? The obvious reason is that they serve to entertain. However, there are two more salient reasons for this, one of which is that it highlights American culture and diversity. All the floats, performers, and bands come from all over the U.S., showcasing the rich diversity. Another reason is that it symbolizes unity and celebration. Even during tough times like World War II and COVID-19, the parade never lost its beauty and spirit. This reflects resilience and shows that togetherness can shine even in the darkest phase!
Watching The Parade From Your Home
Back in the days, if you wanted to see the parade, you had to be there in person. Not anymore! This means that millions of families on Thanksgiving morning can now turn on their TVs and watch the parade online. TV Channels like NBC News broadcast the parade live from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Also, Spanish-language channels like Telemundo broadcast the parade at the same time as NBC News. Thus, now you can celebrate the parade from your living room with the same excitement and joy!
With everything being said, it can be concluded that the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a very inspirational and seasonal part of our daily activities today! It has a history featuring its part in the Macy’s Christmas Parade, and now, the Thanksgiving Day Parade. With that being said, it would be a wonderful experience to visit New York to see this event, and for it to be a new beginning to the holiday season.
