A history of one of the most famous Thanksgiving traditions.
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade started in 1924 when some of the Macy's employees marched down 34th Street. They were dressed as clowns, cowboys, knights, and sheiks. A lot of Macy's employees were first-generation Europeans, and they wanted to spread the love and cheer of the newfound love they had in America. They did something along the lines of this, that many had watched their parents participate in. The Europeans wanted to bring that spirit over with them, so it could bring the holiday spirit out in many North Americans. Soon after, at the 5th annual Thanksgiving Day parade in 1928, they started to incorporate the big infamous balloon. The Thanksgiving Day parade is known for the big entertainment balloons and the crazy design and dynamic of every unique balloon. They didn’t know what to do with all the different balloons after the parade so in 1927-1932 they would just let go of the balloons. Most of the balloons would pop after going so high in the air. But that changed quickly in 1928 they started to have a competition for $100, if you were to catch a free-floating balloon, but ended in 1932 after there was a close call between a balloon and an aircraft. Over 24.7 Million Americans watched the parade. Just 25.2 million Americans watch on different streaming platforms, and almost 3.5 million people travel to New York just to watch the parade. The parade has changed a lot from when it started to how it is now. They have added some balloons but some balloons have been in the parade since 1927. Each year they add a few new balloons based on the popularity of the votes.
Many people wake up in the morning waiting for the Thanksgiving parade, the anticipation to see the new balloons and celebrate the tradition that has been born into many families. Over 40% of Heyworth Jr-Sr High school students watch the parade. Many students stated that this has been a family tradition since they were little kids. Many people also said that it’s something they will never miss or forget because there have been tons of memories and fun with the family. It really makes them feel the spirit and get ready to enjoy the holidays.
The parade will be live on many channels on Thursday, November 23 from 8 am-11 am! Enjoy the parade and have a good Thanksgiving with family and friends.
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