Macy Thanksgiving Day Parade for the year 2023 unfolded in grandeur on Thursday in the heart of New York City. The festive extravaganza showcased an array of prominent figures adorning colossal floats, including the likes of Cher, Brandy, Jon Batiste, Bell Biv DeVoe, Enhyphen, and Pentatonix.
The event boasted the participation of 11 of the nation’s premier marching bands, 29 lively clown crews, and captivating dance performances by esteemed groups such as the Radio City Rockettes, Big Apple Circus, and Tiptoe Winter Guard, among others. Broadway took a prominent role in the parade, featuring performances from productions like “& Juliet,” “Back to the Future: The Musical,” “Shucked,” and more. This year’s parade extended its runtime to three and a half hours, offering an additional 30 minutes of captivating content compared to its usual three hours.
Leading the procession down Central Park West was the iconic Tom Turkey float, accompanied by Alabama A&M Universitys Marching Maroon and White. Grammy and Oscar-winning musician Jon Batiste commenced the festivities with a vibrant rendition of “Worship,” supported by a lively group of dancers. Paul Russell followed suit with his hit song “Lil Boo Thang,” and the renowned R&B group En Vogue graced the Wonder Bread float with their performance of “Youre the Inspiration.”
Taking center stage, Cher enthralled the audience with her latest holiday single, “DJ Play a Christmas Song,” a preview from her upcoming Christmas album simply titled “Christmas.” The Thanksgiving parade wouldn’t be complete without the high-kicking performance of the Rockettes, bedazzled in matching glittering ensembles, executing a synchronized dance routine for the delighted spectators.
Brandy, situated on a Brachs candy float, delivered a sweet rendition of “Someday at Christmas,” while Bell Biv DeVoe showcased their dance prowess on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles float with a lively performance of their hit song “Poison.” Ashley Park from “Emily in Paris” joined the festivities on the Sesame Street float, harmonizing with beloved characters like Big Bird, Oscar the Grouch, Elmo, and Cookie Monster.
Pentatonix serenaded the crowd with their beloved Christmas song “Mistletoe,” and the K-pop sensation Enhypen rode the “Baby Shark” float, injecting the catchy kids’ tune with a choreographed dance. Other notable performers included Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, Chicago, the dynamic duo David Foster and Katharine McPhee, Jessie James Decker, Amanda Shaw and Alex Smith, and Manuel Turizo.
A cherished tradition since 1924, the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, held in New York City and broadcast to millions, unfolded with its signature mix of enchanting floats, towering balloons, and captivating musical acts, marking the official commencement of the holiday season.
Also read: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Unveils New Floats and Exciting Performances
Our Reader’s Queries
What time and channel is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade?
Catch the 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live on NBC and Telemundo from 8:30 a.m. to noon ET.
How can I watch Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade 2023?
Watch the parade live on NBC’s website or on-the-go with the NBC app. Peacock subscribers can also catch the live program on the Peacock website or app as it airs.
Who is performing at the Macy’s Day parade 2023?
This year’s holiday event will showcase a fantastic lineup of talented artists, such as Cher, Brandy, Jon Batiste, Bell Biv DeVoe, and Pentatonix.
What celebrities are in the Thanksgiving Parade 2023?
Jon Batiste, Bell Biv DeVoe, Brandy, Jessie James Decker, Pentatonix, and Miss America 2023 Grace Stanke are among the notable celebrities and musical acts participating. The parade will also feature performances from various Broadway show casts. According to NBC News, the celebrations were momentarily disrupted by activists.