Each year, more than 3.5 million people in New York City & 50 million-plus viewers at home watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, helping the traditional store kick off the holiday season this Thursday, November 28th. In its 98th annual edition, it will land in front of Macy’s flagship store on 34th Street, and will offer Broadway performances, celebrity sightings, marching bands such as the renowned Avon Marching Black & Gold and the famous stories-high balloons. If you want to know how to watch this famous event, here is a detailed list with helpful tips to don’t miss any of it!
How to watch the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV & Streaming
Catch the magic of the 98th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live on NBC! Witness the spectacle of giant balloons, dazzling floats, and electrifying performances starting at 8:30 AM ET on November 28th. Stream the parade for free on NBC.com, the NBC app, or Peacock. Don’t miss a moment – an encore presentation airs at 2:00 PM ET/PT.
This year, tune in to NBC for the official broadcast, as CBS will not be airing the event. Telemundo will offer a Spanish language simulcast, while NBC’s Secondary Audio Program channel provides live audio description for visually impaired viewers.
Where to watch the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in person
The route of the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade & spectator viewing is managed by the New York Police Department (NYPD), along the traditional 2.5-mile route, which stretches from the Upper West Side to Midtown. Public viewing areas are available on the west side of Central Park West, the south side of Central Park South & on 6th Avenue along the Parade route.
To secure a prime viewing spot for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, arrive early! Aim to be on Central Park West between 75th and 61st Streets by 6 AM. While there are no official viewing areas on 6th and 7th Avenue between West 34th and West 38th Streets, you can still catch a glimpse of the parade from the sidewalks. However, be prepared for crowds. Avoid the 34th Street Herald Square and Penn Station subway stations due to heavy congestion.
Remember, the parade route begins at 77th Street and Central Park West and ends at Macy’s Herald Square. If you wish to arrive later, parade goers can watch on Sixth Avenue between 59th and 38th Streets. These streets tend to be less crowded and these areas boast wider sidewalks. So, plan your route accordingly and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
Will there be street closures for the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Many streets will be closed off because of the 98th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (2024) so walk strategically. For example, Central Park West will be closed from West 72nd Street to West 86th Street beginning 12am Wednesday, November 27 through 12pm Thursday, November 28.
West 72nd Street through West 85th Street will be closed from Central Park West to Columbus Avenue beginning 12am Wednesday, November 27 through 12pm Thursday, November 28. Also, the 79th Street Transverse will be closed during the same time period.