This year marks the return of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Due to the pandemic, last year’s fully virtual parade was relegated to the one-block radius in front of their flagship store on 34th Street.
But this Thanksgiving, spectators can line the streets of the parade’s traditional route through Manhattan. So, if you’ve never seen the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in person, then this is a great year to experience it.
Macy’s & Webster Are Forever Connected
Before we get into the return of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, we’ve got a quick connection to share. Did you know that The Webster Apartments hold a special connection with Macy’s? It’s true!
The benefactors of The Webster Apartments, Charles and Josiah Webster, came to NYC in 1876. Charles and Josiah were cousins of R.H. Macy (the founder of Macy’s). And after arriving in NYC, the brothers began working at Macy’s. It was there that they identified a need for all-female housing by speaking with many of their female coworkers.
The partnership with Macy helped them earn a small fortune. In fact, Charles was a senior partner at Macy’s from 1876-1889 and kept his office there until his death in 1916.
And it was this partnership and career that enabled Charles to donate a generous amount of his estate to the build a residence for working women. The Webster Apartments opened it’s doors at 419 W. 34th Street on November 15, 1923, and the rest is history!
You can read more about our history in our previous blog.
What You Need To Know
The return of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a celebration this year! Not only because it’s a return to in-person spectating, but also because it marks their 95th year. If you’re new to NYC, then the parade should be on your bucket list of must-see NY attractions.
Not only can you watch iconic giant balloons float down the route, but also marching bands from around the country. Additionally, you can see showstopping musical numbers from Broadway performers which are sprinkled throughout the parade route.
And get excited, because this year there’s the introduction of the Grogu balloon (seen below).
[Source: Star Wars]
So, where are the best places to watch? Macy’s website has the full parade route as well as helpful information on who’s performing. You can also visit their parade shop, read up on their safety info, learn about the charities they work with.
The parade begins at 9 a.m. EST and concludes at noon when Santa shows up on his float to usher in the beginning of the holiday season.
Summing Up
The return of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the beginning of our favorite season in New York – the holiday season! The city is magical and cozier from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. If you don’t believe us, then start with the Thanksgiving Day Parade.
It’s the perfect excuse to grab some of your Webster friends and make a day of it!
