View the Top Pictures from the 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Parade thrilled audiences for three and a half hours with dazzling performances and visual spectacle. This years lineup featured top artists including Cynthia Erivo, HUNTR/X, Busta Rhymes, Mickey Guyton, Lil Jon, and more.

Broadway talent was also prominently showcased, with casts from Ragtime, Just in Time, and Buena Vista Social Club captivating viewers with dynamic performances throughout the broadcast.

Five new floats made their debut this year: Buzz Lightyear, Derpy Tiger from K-Pop Demon Hunters, Mario, Pac-Man, and Shreks Onion Carriage, adding fresh excitement to the procession.

Cynthia Erivo kicked off the parade with a stunning rendition of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good," blending fashion and powerhouse vocals. The Ragtime cast energized the crowd with a medley of "Wheels of a Dream" and the "Prologue."

Ciara delighted fans as she rode the Colossal Wave of Wonder float presented by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, while the Buzz Lightyear balloon made a striking first appearance, appearing larger than life along the parade route.

Taylor Momsen radiated joy as she participated in the festivities. Lil Jon brought infectious energy to the Toys "R" Us float during Geoffreys Dazzling Dance Party, while Shaggy captured personal footage from Jennie-O's Big Turkey Spectacular float.

Labubus fever was evident, with the Labubu and the Friends-giving in Pop City float drawing huge attention. Busta Rhymes and his team greeted the crowd from the World of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles float, while Marios cheerful balloon float traveled down Sixth Avenue for the first time.

Debbie Gibson enchanted spectators on Serta's Counting Sheep's Dream Generator float. Mr. Fantasy delivered a high-energy performance aboard the Macys Jolly Polly Pirate Ship float, keeping spirits high throughout the parade.

Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, and Hoda Kotb charmed audiences as they introduced HUNTR/X, who thrilled fans with the hit "Golden." Jonathan Groff and the cast of Just in Time added further excitement with their lively performance.

Even the grumpy Grinch couldnt resist spectating amidst all the celebrations. Fans also enjoyed the Spiderman balloon striking the hero's iconic pose, adding a classic touch to the parades lineup of attractions.

Author's Commentary: Macy's 2025 Parade Highlights Innovation and Star Power

The 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Parade once again proved its ability to blend tradition with contemporary entertainment. This year’s event stood out for its mix of established Broadway talent and top musical artists, creating a multifaceted spectacle that engaged audiences from start to finish.

The introduction of five new floats—including Buzz Lightyear, Mario, Pac-Man, Derpy Tiger, and Shrek’s Onion Carriage—demonstrates Macy's commitment to refreshing the parade while appealing to both younger viewers and long-time fans. The floats were accompanied by performances that were carefully coordinated, such as Cynthia Erivo opening with Nina Simone's "Feeling Good" and the Ragtime cast energizing the crowd with a medley from the show.

Notably, the parade successfully balanced celebrity performances with fan-favorite floats. Lil Jon, Busta Rhymes, Ciara, and Debbie Gibson brought energy and interactivity, while the Mario and Spiderman balloons provided iconic imagery that reinforced the parade's cultural relevance. The combination of these elements reflects careful planning and highlights the parade’s enduring role as a national entertainment fixture.

Overall, this year’s Macy's Parade reinforced its position as a high-profile cultural event by integrating modern pop culture, Broadway excellence, and visually stunning floats, all while maintaining the celebratory spirit that defines the holiday tradition.

Sources:

• See All the Best Photos from the 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade