What time does the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade start in 2025
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual holiday tradition in New York City, typically running in the morning and early afternoon on Thanksgiving Day. While the exact date for 2025 is not yet announced, the parade historically occurs on the fourth Thursday in November, and organizers usually publish the official schedule several months in advance. This guide explains the expected start time, full route, planning windows, road closures, and broadcast options so you can prepare in advance.
2025 parade date and expected start time
Because the 2025 parade date depends on the Thanksgiving calendar, the precise start time and route details are not publicly available at the time of writing. The parade traditionally begins at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thanksgiving Day and proceeds southward along a fixed Manhattan route. When the 2025 schedule is confirmed, you can expect announcements on the official Macy's channels, the event website, and city transportation agencies.
Typical timeline for parade day
- 8:00–9:00 a.m.: Media and spectator access to viewing areas
- 9:00–10:30 a.m.: Main parade window with balloons and performances
- 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Continued units and marching bands
- 12:30–2:00 p.m.: Final segments and NBC broadcast wrap-up
Route and key viewing Locations
The parade follows a consistent course from Central Park West down to Manhattan's southern tip, turning east on 34th Street to finish at Macy's Herald Square. Street closures generally begin the morning of Thanksgiving and block the route from Central Park West to 6th Avenue between 77th and 34th Streets. Popular viewing spots include American Museum of Natural History, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Macy's flagship store.
Route overview (north to south)
| Street/Section | Typical Parade Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 77th–34th Streets (Central Park West) | Balloon inflation and start | Early access and viewing mounds |
| 34th–72nd Streets (6th to Central Park West) | Main units and performances | Major crowd areas |
| 34th Street (turn east) | Finish line at Macy's Herald Square | Closures and retail activation |
Broadcast and streaming options
The parade is televised live on NBC and streams on Peacock, with prerecorded highlights airing later in the week. Local New York channels provide road closure updates and weather-driven schedule changes. If you plan to watch remotely, check network announcements for start times, live feeds, and parade status updates in case of weather-related delays.
Travel, closures, and viewer tips
Subway stations along the route often open earlier than usual, while nearby roads close from the morning into midafternoon. To secure a good viewing spot, arrive at least two hours before the expected start and review official maps from the New York City Department of Transportation. Dress for cool weather, bring essentials, and verify real-time updates on the day of the event through official channels.