What Time Does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade End 2024: Schedule and Viewing Tips

End Time of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? I have researched and found out that the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade usually wraps up by 12 PM, perfectly complementing your holiday plans.

Key Takeaways

  • The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a festive event celebrating the holiday season.
  • It typically ends around noon, allowing viewers to continue their Thanksgiving plans.
  • Ending times may vary; staying informed helps with personal scheduling on the day.

Parade Schedule and Route

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When I plan to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, I always make sure to note the starting point, route landmarks, and ending time to make the most of the experience. Here’s how it typically goes down in New York City.

Starting Point and Time

Kickoff: The parade traditionally begins at 8:30 AM ET at West 77th Street and Central Park West. It’s a bright and early start, so I get there well ahead of time to get the best spots.

Route Landmarks

  • Central Park West: The route stretches along Central Park West, and I recommend getting a good spot between West 75th and West 61st Streets. Spectators often arrive around 6 AM ET.
  • Columbus Circle Turn: A significant turn happens at Columbus Circle, where the parade makes its transition onto Central Park South.
  • Central Park South to Sixth Avenue: The parade moves down Sixth Avenue, a lengthy stretch that provides plenty of viewing opportunities.
  • Final Stretch: The parade makes its way down Sixth Avenue toward the iconic Herald Square at 34th Street, passing by the renowned Broadway theater district.

Ending Point and Time

Conclusion: The grand finale for me is always when the parade reaches 34th Street and Herald Square, usually around 12:00 PM ET. Getting there earlier in the day secures a good viewing spot to witness the end of the parade near the famous Macy’s flagship store.

Viewing the Parade

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When I attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, I focus on getting a great spot and understanding the rules for public viewing. For those at home, I look into how NBC and Telemundo broadcast the event so nobody misses out on the spectacle.

Best Viewing Spots

I always recommend arriving early to get a good spot, as prime locations along Central Park West fill up quickly. Historically, the area from 75th to 59th streets on Central Park West offers a great view of the balloons and floats as they race by. Note that the closer to 6th Avenue, the more crowded it might get.

Public Viewing Guidelines

Public viewing starts at 6 AM, and I find it’s important to follow all guidelines. Personal belongings should be kept to a minimum and checkpoints are there for everyone’s safety. Large bags, umbrellas, and alcohol are not permitted. Accessibility is available, and I advise checking out the 95th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade route for any special accommodations.

NBC and Telemundo Telecast

For those who prefer to watch the parade in the comfort of their home, the parade is telecast live on NBC, which typically starts at 9 AM in all time zones. Since this is a family tradition, I make sure the TV is tuned in on time or I stream it live through Peacock, so I don’t miss a moment. Telemundo also provides a Spanish language telecast for those who prefer it. Camera angles are terrific, capturing every float and performance, offering spectators everywhere a front-row experience.

Highlights and Performances

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Every Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a spectacular showcase, and this year was no exception. From iconic giant balloons to star-studded performances, let’s dive into the details that made the event unforgettable.

Featured Balloons

The sky was filled with colorful characters, including Pikachu and Snoopy, who made his appearance decorated as the Beagle Scout Snoopy. Families especially loved the new Bluey balloon, soaring high amongst crowd favorites like SpongeBob SquarePants and the nostalgic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Monkey D. Luffy and the impressive Goku from Dragon Ball joined the aerial lineup this year; both were a hit with anime fans.

Celebrity Performers

The parade also boasted performances from revered artists. Cher graced the event, delighting fans with her timeless presence. En Vogue, Jessie James Decker, and Pentatonix brought music to our ears with their dynamic live numbers. Broadway was well-represented too, with talents like Andrew Rannells and casts from Back to the Future: The Musical and Shucked delivering show-stopping performances. The beloved Sesame Street cast provided heartwarming tunes that brought joy to all ages.

Marching Bands and Dance Groups

Musical flair was abundant with an array of marching bands and dance groups. Each brought their unique energy and choreography, adding zest to the parade route. These musical powerhouses were a feast for the senses, from the spirited sounds of high school bands to polished college ensembles. Dance troops twirled and tapped, infusing the parade with movement and rhythm, contributing to the day’s jubilant atmosphere.

Parade History and Legacy

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I’m excited to share some fascinating tidbits about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a spectacular event that has captivated audiences for nearly a century. This parade isn’t just a festivity; it’s a cherished part of American Thanksgiving Day traditions, reflecting both the culture’s evolution and its iconic moments.

Evolution of the Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began as a simple yet heartfelt celebration in 1924, launching from the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Over time, the parade has transformed significantly. In its early days, live animals from the Central Park Zoo were a highlight, but these were eventually replaced by the giant character balloons that define the parade today. The route, too, has seen changes, now typically running down 6th Avenue before culminating outside Macy’s Herald Square. It’s a fascinating countdown to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade that signals the start of the holiday season.

Iconic Moments

Throughout its history, the parade has had no shortage of memorable highlights. For many, the live broadcast on NBCUniversal, with familiar faces like Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker from the “Today” show hosting the event, has become a staple of their Thanksgiving morning. Introducing new character balloons is always exciting, attracting audiences eager to see the latest additions. Let’s not forget the grand finale with Santa Claus himself, signifying the official start of the Christmas season. Each year, these features and many more weave together the historic threads and the spectacle that millions have come to love.

FAQ – What Time Does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade End?

What time does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade end?

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade typically ends around noon.

How long is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? 

The parade usually lasts about 3 hours, starting at 9 A.M. and concluding around 12 P.M.

Where does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade end? 

The parade concludes outside Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street.


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Martin Lange
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