Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025: Mario, Cynthia Erivo & 26 stars Nov 27

The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marches through New York City on November 27, 2025. This year’s spectacle features a massive debut: a 51-foot Mario balloon celebrating 40 years of Super Mario Bros. The event will be broadcast live on NBC and Peacock starting at 8:30 a.m. ET.

Cynthia Erivo opens the show with a powerhouse performance. She leads a star-studded lineup of 26 performers. The parade also marks the 100th anniversary of the Radio City Rockettes.

Mario’s Monumental First Parade Flight

Nintendo’s iconic plumber makes his long-awaited parade debut. The Mario balloon is a colossal 51 feet and 2 inches long. It stands 43 feet and 8 inches tall.

According to NBC, the balloon required 90 trained handlers to guide it safely. Its design is inspired by the Super Mario Galaxy game. This marks the character’s first appearance in the parade’s near-century history.

The creation celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Super Mario Bros. franchise. It is one of 32 giant balloons floating above Manhattan. The collaboration between Macy’s Parade Studio and Nintendo took over a year to complete.

A Star-Studded Performance Lineup

The performer list reads like a who’s who of entertainment. Cynthia Erivo’s opening number sets the stage for a three-and-a-half-hour show. The lineup includes Ciara, Lil Jon, Busta Rhymes, and Teyana Taylor.

Broadway is well-represented with performances from “Just in Time,” “Ragtime,” and “Buena Vista Social Club.” Legendary bands Foreigner and Kool & the Gang will also perform. Debbie Gibson, Jewel, and Shaggy round out the musical acts.

Hosts Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker return for their ninth year together. They will guide viewers through the magic from their Herald Square podium. The parade will feature 27 elaborate floats in addition to the balloons and performances.

How to Watch the 2025 Parade

The main broadcast airs on NBC from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. ET. Peacock will stream the event live for its subscribers. An encore presentation will air at 2:00 p.m. ET/PT the same day.

For Spanish-language coverage, Telemundo will provide a parallel broadcast. Public viewing along the 2.5-mile route is free and open to all. The best viewing spots are along Central Park West and Sixth Avenue.

The parade steps off from 77th Street and Central Park West. It proceeds south to Columbus Circle before turning onto Sixth Avenue. The finale takes place in front of Macy’s Herald Square flagship store.

The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Mario’s historic balloon debut and the powerhouse performer lineup create must-see television. This 99th edition continues a beloved American tradition that kicks off the holiday season.

Info at your fingertips

What time does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade start?

The parade begins at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, November 27, 2025. The television broadcast runs until noon. An encore airs at 2:00 p.m. ET the same day.

Which channel is broadcasting the parade?

NBC is the official broadcast partner for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. You can also stream it live on Peacock. Telemundo provides Spanish-language coverage.

How tall is the Mario balloon in the parade?

The Mario balloon stands 51 feet and 2 inches long and 43 feet 8 inches tall. It requires 90 handlers. This marks Mario’s first appearance in the parade’s history.

Who is performing at the 2025 parade?

Cynthia Erivo opens the show with 25 other performers. The lineup includes Ciara, Lil Jon, Busta Rhymes, and Broadway casts. Foreigner and Kool & the Gang will also perform.

What is the parade route in New York City?

The 2.5-mile route starts at 77th Street and Central Park West. It moves south to Columbus Circle, then down Sixth Avenue. The finale is at Macy’s Herald Square.

How many balloons and floats are in the parade?

The 2025 parade features 32 giant character balloons. There are also 27 elaborate floats. Over 5,000 volunteers help bring the spectacle to life.