Macy’s 99th Thanksgiving Parade: Unveiling New Marvels and Iconic Characters

Celebrating nearly a century of festivity, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade remains a cherished American tradition. This year marks the 99th iteration, kicking off on Thursday, November 27, featuring a vibrant lineup of floats, massive balloons, and fan-favorite cultural figures.

A preview held at Macy’s Parade Studio in Moonachie, N.J., unveiled some exciting new highlights including Pop Mart’s furry characters Labubu and Mokoko on a visually stunning new float.

Brendan Kennedy, Macy’s Director of Creative Production, shared the excitement surrounding a new float inspired by Stranger Things, hinting, “Look out for the Hawkins National Laboratory making its way down the route with a towering eight-and-a-half-foot Demogorgon!”

This year introduces seven innovative floats: The Land of Glaciers, Wildlife & Wonder by Holland America Line, Brick-tastic Winter Mountain by The LEGO Group, Master Chocolatier Ballroom by Lindt, Upside Down Invasion: Stranger Things by Netflix, Friends-giving in POPCITY by Pop Mart, The Counting Sheep's Dream Generator by Serta, and The Littlest Float by Goldfish.

Kennedy emphasized the essential role of pop culture in the parade's evolution, noting, “It serves as a yearbook for trends and happenings, improving our parade experience every year.”

This year, five giant balloons are making their debut, including Buzz Lightyear, PAC-MAN, Shrek’s Onion Carriage, Mario, and Derpy Tiger from Netflix’s K-Pop Demon Hunters. Additionally, a Sussie balloonicle from K-Pop Demon Hunters will join the lively procession, enriching the event's character roster.

With the introduction of Labubu and Lacoco as the first-ever 16-foot inflatable furry balloons in the parade’s storied history, this year promises to highlight creativity and innovation within this enduring holiday spectacle.