If you’re planning to roll out of bed at 9:00 a.m. to catch the start of the parade, I’ve got some bad news for you. You’re already late. For decades, we all just "knew" the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade started at nine. It was a rule of nature. But things changed last year, and for 2024, that "new" schedule is officially the standard.
Basically, the 98th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is kicking off at 8:30 a.m. sharp across all time zones on Thursday, November 28, 2024.
That thirty-minute shift might not seem like a big deal while you're staring at a turkey, but if you’re trying to see the opening ribbon-cutting or that first Broadway performance, it’s everything. Honestly, the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, so let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to actually watch this thing without missing the best parts.
The Official 2024 Schedule and Broadcast Info
The parade runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in your local time zone.
NBC has been the home of the parade since 1953, and they aren't changing that now. If you’ve cut the cord, Peacock is your best friend here—they’re simulcasting the whole event live.
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Wait, what if you sleep in? It happens. The mimosas hit early. NBC usually runs an encore presentation starting at 2:00 p.m. ET/PT, which is perfect for that post-meal food coma.
For the first time, Peacock is also leaning into their "Multiview" feature, which they tested during the Olympics. You can actually toggle between different camera angles if you’re a total parade nerd. There’s also a Spanish-language simulcast on Telemundo if that’s your preference.
Where to Stand (If You're Actually in NYC)
Watching on TV is comfy, sure. But being there? That’s a whole different animal. The route is 2.5 miles long, starting at West 77th Street and Central Park West and ending, obviously, at Macy’s Herald Square.
If you want a spot at the barricade, you basically have to be a morning person on steroids. People start lining up at 6:00 a.m. ### The Best Spots
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- Central Park West: This is where the magic starts. The stretch from 75th to 61st Street is great because the buildings aren't as tall, and you get better light for photos.
- The Shops at Columbus Circle: Kinda a pro tip—if you can get into the second or third floor of the mall, you can watch from the windows. It’s warm. There are bathrooms. Need I say more?
- 6th Avenue: The "Avenue of the Americas" stretch from 59th down to 38th Street is where the energy really peaks.
Where to Avoid
Stay away from the area between 34th and 38th Streets. That’s the "Telecast Area." Unless you have a super-secret VIP pass or you're related to Al Roker, you won't get in. It’s closed to the public for the TV cameras.
Who’s Showing Up in 2024?
Macy’s doesn't do "small." This year's lineup is a massive mix of nostalgic favorites and "who is that?" Gen Z icons.
The Performers:
We’re looking at some heavy hitters. Jennifer Hudson is set to perform, which is always a powerhouse moment. Kylie Minogue (the "Padam Padam" queen herself) is making an appearance, along with Billy Porter, T-Pain, and the legendary Temptations.
The New Balloons:
The balloons are the real stars, let's be real. In 2024, keep an eye out for:
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- Minnie Mouse: Believe it or not, this is a "new" version.
- Spider-Man: A fresh Marvel debut.
- Goku: For the anime fans.
- Extraordinary Noorah: From the Elf on the Shelf universe.
The Floats:
There are over 20 floats this year. Some of the new ones include a "Dora’s Fantastical Rainforest" float and a very "on-brand" Rao’s Homemade pasta float called "Pasta Knight." Yes, a pasta knight.
Don’t Forget the Balloon Inflation
If you're in the city on Wednesday, November 27, the "Inflation Celebration" is almost better than the parade itself.
It happens around the American Museum of Natural History (77th and 81st Streets) from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. You get to see the balloons go from flat pancakes to giant characters. It’s free, but the line starts at 72nd and Columbus and moves slow. Like, really slow. Bring a podcast and some patience.
Actionable Strategy for Parade Day
To make sure your Thanksgiving doesn't start with a "Wait, it already started?" moment, follow these steps:
- Set the DVR for 8:15 a.m. Give yourself a buffer. Even if you’re watching "live," things happen.
- Check your local NBC affiliate. While the 8:30 a.m. start is "all time zones," some local stations have pre-shows that are actually worth watching for the behind-the-scenes stuff.
- Hydrate if you're going in person. Finding a bathroom in Midtown Manhattan on Thanksgiving morning is like finding a needle in a haystack made of other needles.
- Download the Peacock App now. Don't be the person trying to remember their password at 8:29 a.m. while the kids are screaming for Snoopy.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2024 is more than just a bunch of balloons; it's the official "permission slip" to start the holiday season. Just remember: 8:30 a.m. is the new 9:00 a.m. Don't miss it.