UPDATE: The star-studded lineup for the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has just been announced, set to take place on November 27, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. in all time zones. This year’s event promises to be a spectacular celebration featuring an eclectic mix of artists, including Ciara, Foreigner, Lil Jon, Kool & the Gang, and Busta Rhymes, alongside rising stars like Mickey Guyton and Teyana Taylor.
The parade will also highlight the cultural sensation of the Netflix hit “KPop Demon Hunters,” with performances from the film’s singers and beloved balloon characters like Derpy Tiger and Sussie joining the festivities. The soundtrack from the movie recently soared to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and has been certified platinum, marking a significant milestone in K-pop’s global reach.
This year’s parade will feature an impressive lineup of 32 balloons, three balloonicles, 27 floats, 33 clown groups, and 11 marching bands, all leading up to a festive arrival of Santa Claus. The beloved hosts from NBC’s “Today” show, Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker, will return to guide viewers through the parade.
Broadway will be well-represented with cast members from “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Just in Time,” and “Ragtime,” alongside performances by the Radio City Rockettes and notable athletes such as three-time U.S. national champion figure skater Ilia Malinin and U.S. Paralympian Jack Wallace.
Every year, the parade draws enormous crowds, with over 31 million viewers tuning in last year alone, a 10% increase from the previous year, making it the biggest audience in history. This year, four new character balloons will debut, including Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, Mario from Super Mario Brothers, and a whimsical 32-foot-tall balloon onion carriage featuring characters from “Shrek.”
In anticipation of next year’s centennial celebration of the parade, organizers are including classic balloons from past events, such as the Rainbow Trout, Happy Hippo Triple Stack, Wigglefoot, and Freida the Dachshund.
Notable new floats will also make their debut, showcasing themes from Holland America Line, Lego, Lindt chocolates, and the ever-popular “Stranger Things.” Additional whimsical floats featuring sleepy sheep courtesy of Serta will add to the parade’s charm.
Fans can also expect performances from a variety of artists, including Jewel, Debbie Gibson, Drew Baldridge, Matteo Bocelli, Colbie Caillat, Gavin DeGraw, and many more, making this year’s event not to be missed.
Marching bands from states including South Carolina, California, Texas, Arizona, New Hampshire, Mississippi, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and even Santiago, Panama will add to the festive sounds of the day. The NYPD’s marching band will also participate, showcasing the city’s spirit.
As excitement builds for the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, fans are encouraged to tune in and share the joy of this cherished holiday tradition. Stay tuned for further announcements, including more celebrity appearances that will be revealed in the days leading up to the parade. This is shaping up to be a Thanksgiving celebration like no other!
