Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Sets New Record with 34.3 Million Viewers, Up 8% From Previous Year

The 2025 edition of the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade has achieved record-breaking viewership across NBC and Peacock. Following last years record-setting broadcast, this years parade attracted a total of 34.3 million viewers, according to live-plus-same-day data.

Overall viewership increased by 8% compared to 2024, while ratings among adults aged 18-49 rose by 13%. NBCs initial 8:30 a.m. ET broadcast drew 25.4 million viewers, surpassing last years record of 23.6 million for the live telecast. This performance made the parade the most-watched entertainment telecast in nearly seven years, since the 2019 Oscars on ABC.

The parade reached its peak on NBC between 11:00 and 11:15 a.m. ET with 30.2 million viewers, showing strong gains across all demographics, particularly among viewers under 25, who increased by 20% compared to last year.

Thanksgiving day programming on NBC also saw high ratings. The National Dog Show Presented by Purina attracted 12.8 million viewers, up 4% from last year. Post-football episodes of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Late Night with Seth Meyers recorded their largest audiences since the NFL season opener on September 4.

The 99th annual parade began at 8:30 a.m. in all time zones on NBC and Peacock, with hosts Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker. An encore broadcast aired at 2:00 p.m. ET/PT. Highlights included performances at Herald Square by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI from Netflixs KPop Demon Hunters, songs from Broadway productions such as Buena Vista Social Club, Just in Time, and Ragtime, as well as the Radio City Rockettes celebrating their 100th year.

The parade involved over 5,000 volunteers and featured 32 balloons, three ballonicles, 27 floats, four specialty units, 33 clown groups, and 11 marching bands and performance groups.

Jen Neal, NBCUniversal EVP of Live Events and Specials, commented: These record-breaking numbers show how cherished this parade is by our viewers. We are thrilled to kick off the holiday season on such a high note and deeply appreciate Macys partnership in producing this iconic event.

Macys chief marketing officer Sharon Otterman added: The record ratings demonstrate Macys creative excellence and technical expertise. We are proud to deliver entertainment that celebrates top talent and resonates with audiences. As we approach the 100th parade, our goal is to continue inspiring joy and wonder for millions across the nation.

Analysis: Record-Breaking Success of the 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has undoubtedly set a new benchmark for viewership, proving its enduring popularity among audiences. With a total of 34.3 million viewers across NBC and Peacock, the parade exceeded last year's already impressive figures, growing by 8% in overall viewership and 13% among adults aged 18-49. This marks a significant achievement, making it the most-watched entertainment telecast in nearly seven years.

Notably, NBC's initial broadcast at 8:30 a.m. ET reached 25.4 million viewers, surpassing last year’s live telecast of 23.6 million. This surge in viewership highlights the parade's ability to draw a diverse audience across demographics. Peak viewership occurred between 11:00 and 11:15 a.m. ET, with 30.2 million viewers tuning in, underscoring the event's widespread appeal and its ability to captivate audiences in real time.

The parade’s broad reach extends beyond the main event itself, with related programming such as “The National Dog Show” and late-night shows seeing increased viewership. These results are further evidence of the continued strength of Thanksgiving Day programming on NBC, with the parade remaining the centerpiece of the day’s festivities.

As Macy’s approaches its 100th parade next year, the 2025 edition serves as a testament to the event's lasting cultural significance. The combination of high-profile performances, cherished traditions, and strong media partnerships has ensured its place as a cornerstone of American holiday celebrations.

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• Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Hits Another All-Time High With 34.3 Million Viewers, Up 8% From Last Year