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Macy’s 100th Thanksgiving Parade to Feature a Record 100 Inflatable Elements

Organizers frame the event as a large cross‑platform production tying new balloons, branded floats, NBC and Telemundo broadcasts, plus pre‑parade specials to the Nov. 26 centennial.

Overview

  • Macy’s has announced the centennial parade will march on Thursday, Nov. 26, and the live broadcast will air on NBC and Peacock with a Telemundo simulcast.
  • The 2026 lineup will include a record 100 inflatable elements, mixing newly commissioned balloons with returning classics and artist‑designed Blue Sky Gallery pieces.
  • A public Balloonfest at MetLife Stadium debuted and tested seven new inflatables, including Bluey, Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey, Hello Kitty Big Apple and Underdog.
  • The parade features wide entertainment and corporate involvement, with performers such as Megan Hilty leading a Dolly Parton tribute, Megan Moroney, Teddy Swims and Jimmy Fallon, plus branded floats from DoorDash, HBO, Planters, Purina and GEICO.
  • NBC and Peacock will build a multi‑platform push around the march, including a Nov. 20 documentary and a Nov. 25 countdown special, while Macy’s mobilizes thousands of volunteers and handlers to manage the complex balloon and float logistics.