The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Here’s a clear, friendly guide to what time it starts, where to watch, the route, and tips to make your Turkey Day viewing perfect.
When does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade start?
99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025 Full Guide: The live broadcast begins at 8:30 a.m. ET in all U.S. time zones on Thanksgiving Day.
Plan for the show to run through about noon ET for the main telecast.
What channel and streams carry the parade?
Watch the parade live on NBC — available by antenna, cable, or satellite.
You can also stream the event on Peacock, which is simulcasting the broadcast.
Is there an encore or alternate viewing options?
Yes — an encore presentation airs in the afternoon for those who miss the morning show.
Peacock is offering multi-view options this year so viewers can switch between camera angles.
Where does the parade start and what is the route?
The parade begins at West 77th Street & Central Park West and travels south, ending at Macy’s Herald Square on West 34th Street.
Balloons, floats and marching bands pass Central Park West, Columbus Circle, Central Park South and down 6th Avenue.
How long is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Expect roughly three and a half hours of live coverage from start to finish, depending on on-the-ground timing and TV editing.
If you’re viewing in person, crowds and TV setups can affect the pace.
Best ways to watch from home (simple checklist)
- Tune to NBC at 8:30 a.m. ET or open Peacock to stream live.
- Use the encore telecast if you can’t watch the morning showing.
- If streaming, check your device and internet speed ahead of time to avoid buffering.
Tips for watching in person (quick, practical)
Arrive early: fans often line up before dawn near Central Park West for the best spots.
Bring layered clothing, snacks, and a portable phone battery — and follow local police instructions on closures.
What to expect in 2025 — balloons, stars, and highlights
The parade features dozens of giant and mid-sized balloons, new floats, marching bands, and big-name performances.
Expect themed balloons and familiar favorites, plus celebrity musical numbers and a grand Santa arrival to close the show.
Troubleshooting & accessibility
If your stream fails, switch to NBC on live TV or try Peacock’s alternate streams.
Closed captions and accessibility features are typically available on the broadcast and streaming platforms.
Quick FAQ
Q: What time is Macy’s parade in my time zone?
A: It airs live at 8:30 a.m. local time across U.S. time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific).
Q: Where can I stream the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for free?
A: Peacock carries the live stream; access depends on Peacock tier and promotions available in your area.
Q: How long does the parade last?
A: About 3½ hours for the televised event, typically wrapping up by noon ET.
Will you watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live this year?
Final note
Whether you’re streaming on Peacock or watching on NBC, set your alarm for 8:30 a.m. and enjoy the pageantry.
Happy Thanksgiving — may your day be full of warmth, balloons, and the spirit of holiday kickoff.
Disclaimer: This article is a news guide compiled for informational purposes based on reporting and official broadcast schedules available as of November 27, 2025.
Check your local listings and your streaming service for any last-minute schedule or access changes.