This year will be celebrating the Macy’s Day Parade’s 96th year, originally starting in 1924. Reports suggest it is projected to draw over three million people who will line the streets of Manhattan in hopes of catching sight of the massive balloons, famous entertainers, marching bands, and Santa Claus.

Every year, around 3 million spectators attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade somewhere along its 2.5-mile path, and another 50 million people watch it on television, ranking it one of the most-watched broadcasts every year.

Only three times, from 1942 to 1944, was the procession canceled due to rubber and helium shortages during WWII. Even during the pandemic, when the world was shut down,  the parade was still on, with many more restrictions and precautions. This year, things are back to normal, and there will be fewer limitations and restrictions than in the years earlier.

The unveiling of brand-new balloons is always one of the parade’s highlights. It was Mickey Mouse in 1934 and Kermit The Frog in 1977. SpongeBob SquarePants (2004), Scrat (2015), and Stuart, the Minion this year are just a few examples.

Although the balloons change, some traditions endure, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade continues. May you enjoy an abundance of blessings this Thanksgiving and always.  Happy Thanksgiving!