When it comes to the holiday season, different families have different traditions, but many of these traditions are quite common. For example, our kids dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating on Halloween. We decorate a tree and open gifts for Christmas. And, in between those two holidays, we eat turkey and watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Thanksgiving.

Every year on Thanksgiving morning, we gather with our family to watch the elaborate floats, see performances from Broadway shows and watch as Santa Clause officially welcomes in the holiday season. Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Last year, in 2020, the parade aired like usual, but it was not the same parade we know and love. Due to the the pandemic, there was not a live parade marching down main street with spectators lining the streets of New York City. Instead, it was a made for TV special with many of the performances filmed ahead of time.

Thankfully, this year’s parade will be almost back to normal. It will take place live on Thanksgiving morning just like usual. Bands, floats and huge balloons will all march their way to Macy’s flagship store.

The department store along with the City of New York have officially announced “the return of the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade^®, set to march down the streets of New York City for its 95^th annual holiday celebration.”

Will Coss, the Executive Producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, explained, “For our 95^th celebration, we are delighted to return this cherished holiday tradition closer to its original form as we march down the streets of New York City and into the homes of a nationwide audience.”

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio is also excited to announce the return of the parade. He said, “We are thrilled to welcome back in its full form the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a world-renowned celebration that ushers in the magic of being in New York City during the holiday season.”

Safety will be a top priority at the parade. Volunteers and staff will be vaccinated, and anyone who is not able to be vaccinated will be tested for Covid-19 prior to being allowed into the backstage area. In addition, everyone will be wearing face masks unless their role in the parade makes that difficult. Exceptions include performers like singers and musicians.

Watch the video below to learn about the history of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to air from 9am to noon in all time zones. Will you be watching?