Which Cities Host Thanksgiving Parades?
Thanksgiving Day is a time for families to come together, share a meal and give thanks for all the blessings in life. One of the most cherished traditions of this holiday is the Thanksgiving Day parade. From New York City to small towns across America, cities host parades filled with colorful floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and live performances. These parades attract millions of visitors each year, making them an integral part of the holiday season.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is perhaps the most famous of all Thanksgiving parades. It has been a New York City tradition since 1924 and is viewed by millions of people each year. The parade features enormous helium-filled balloons of popular cartoon characters, marching bands, performers, and celebrity appearances. It begins at 9:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day at West 77th Street and Central Park West and ends at Macy’s Herald Square.
America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit
Another well-known Thanksgiving parade is America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit, Michigan. This parade is one of the oldest and largest in the country, dating back to 1924. It features floats, marching bands, and giant balloons, and has a theme that changes each year. The parade starts at Woodward Avenue and Mack in downtown Detroit and ends at Woodward Avenue and Congress.
Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago
The Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago, Illinois, is another popular parade that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The parade has been held since 1934 and features giant inflatable balloons, marching bands, and performances by local theater groups and dance companies. The parade begins at State Street and Congress and ends at Randolph Street.
McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade in Houston
In Houston, Texas, the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade has been a tradition since 1949. It features floats, balloons, marching bands, and live performances by local cultural groups. The parade begins at Lamar and Smith and ends at Dallas and Smith.
H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade in Houston
In addition to the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade, Houston also hosts the H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade. This parade is known for its elaborate floats and features live music and dance performances. It begins at Lamar and Bagby and ends at Dallas and Bagby.
Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is home to the Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade, which features floats, balloons, marching bands, and live performances. The parade starts at 20th Street and JFK Boulevard and ends at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Carolinas’ Carrousel Thanksgiving Parade
The Carolinas’ Carrousel Thanksgiving Parade takes place in Charlotte, North Carolina, and features floats, marching bands, and live performances by local cultural groups. The parade starts at 9th and Tryon Streets and ends at 3rd and Tryon Streets.
UBS Thanksgiving Day Parade in Stamford
Stamford, Connecticut, hosts the UBS Thanksgiving Day Parade, which features floats, balloons, marching bands, and live performances. The parade begins at Hoyt and Summer Streets and ends at Atlantic and Broad Streets.
Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade in Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, also hosts the Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade, which features balloons, marching bands, and live performances. The parade starts at 9th and Tryon Streets and ends at 3rd and Tryon Streets.
America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade in MA
In Plymouth, Massachusetts, America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade is a popular event that celebrates the town’s history and traditions. The parade features floats, marching bands, and live performances and begins at the Plymouth waterfront and ends at North Street.
Parade of the Wooden Soldiers in NH
Finally, New Hampshire’s Parade of the Wooden Soldiers is a unique Thanksgiving Day parade that features wooden soldiers marching in a line. The parade also includes floats, marching bands, and live performances and begins at the corner of Elm and Amherst Streets.
Conclusion: Celebrate Thanksgiving with a Parade
Thanksgiving Day parades are a great way to celebrate the holiday season and bring communities together. From New York City to small towns across America, these parades offer something for everyone. So, gather your friends and family, put on your warm clothes, and head out to your local Thanksgiving parade to enjoy the festivities.
