The traditional Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade attracts many local and visiting crowds to New York City, and although many people watch it live on television, the parade also brings many to the streets. It is held annually on the fourth Thursday in November, and in 2021, the parade will be held on Thursday, Nov. 25. 

During the four-kilometer parade, 15 giant celebrity balloons, 28 floats, 36 novelty and heritage inflatables, more than 800 clowns, 10 marching bands, nine performance groups and, of course, Santa Claus, welcome the holiday season.

The 95th Thanksgiving Day Parade resumes "normalcy" after being held last year filled with pandemic restrictions. 

"For our 95th celebration, Macy's has created a show to remember with a dazzling array of high-flying balloons, animated floats and incredible performers. We look forward to helping New York City and the nation kick off the holiday season with the return of this cherished tradition," said parade executive producer Will Coss.

Traditionally, as early as 6 a.m., people are already lining up along the route to secure a good spot. Some streets are closed to traffic to avoid crowds. Officially, the Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 9 a.m. on the west side of Central Park at 77th Street and continues down 6th Avenue to Herald Square at 34th Street, where Macy's department store is located. 

This year visitors will be allowed to view the inflated balloons the day before the parade as long as they show proof of vaccination, while children under the age of 12 may be accompanied by a vaccinated adult.