NEW YORK (AP) — The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicked off Thursday in New York Metropolis, with new balloons depicting Buzz Lightyear and Pac-Man set to take to the skies and floats that includes Labubu and Lego gracing the streets.
The parade began on Manhattan’s Higher West Aspect and can finish at Macy’s Herald Sq. flagship retailer on thirty fourth Avenue.
It’s a cold day within the metropolis, with temperatures within the 40s, however wind gusts between 25 mph (40 kph) and 30 mph (48 kph) will make it really feel colder, in response to David Stark, a meteorologist with the Nationwide Climate Service in New York.
Officers have watched the forecast intently, since metropolis legislation prohibits Macy’s from flying full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph (37 kph) or wind gusts are over 35 mph (56 kph). Climate has grounded the balloons solely as soon as, in 1971, however additionally they typically have soared decrease than typical due to wind.
Authorities will resolve Thursday morning whether or not any balloon changes are wanted, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch mentioned.
She mentioned at a information convention Wednesday that there have been no recognized, particular, credible threats to the occasion, however as typical, hundreds of law enforcement officials shall be stationed alongside the route.
The parade has been a magnet for protests within the final two years, when pro-Palestinian protesters acquired into the parade route. Police “are prepared to address that and any other situations that come our way,” Tisch mentioned.
A star-studded lineup of performances shall be sprinkled all through the present, together with a slew of marching bands, dancers and cheerleaders. Performers embrace “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo, Conan Grey, Lainey Wilson, Foreigner, Lil Jon, and Audrey Nuna, EJAE and Rei Ami of HUNTR/X, the fictional woman group on the coronary heart of this yr’s Netflix hit “KPop Demon Hunters.” The Radio Metropolis Rockettes additionally shall be there, as will solid members from Broadway’s “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Just in Time” and “Ragtime.”
Spencer Platt by way of Getty Photos
All advised, the parade is predicted to characteristic dozens of balloons, floats, clown teams and marching bands — all main the best way for Santa Claus. Among the many new balloons being featured is a big onion carriage that includes eight characters from the world of “ Shrek.” “KPop Demon Hunters” will even be represented within the sky with the characters Derpy Tiger and Sussie.
The occasion will air on NBC, hosted by Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker from “Today” and their former colleague Hoda Kotb. On Telemundo, the hosts shall be Andrea Meza, Aleyda Ortiz and Clovis Nienow.
The parade can be being simulcast on NBC’s Peacock streaming service.
