The 99th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to step off on Thursday, November 27, 2025, and knowing exactly how to stream the massive spectacle is more crucial than ever for viewers both with and without cable. This year's broadcast promises a host of new features, including a groundbreaking streaming option on Peacock, ensuring the iconic event is accessible to millions globally. The parade, which has been a holiday tradition since 1924, continues to evolve its viewing experience, making it easier than ever to watch the giant balloons, dazzling floats, and star-studded performances from the comfort of your home.
The core broadcast remains on NBC, but the shift toward digital platforms means cord-cutters have a wealth of fresh, reliable options to catch every minute of the three-hour event live. From premium streaming features to free trial loopholes, this guide details the definitive methods to ensure you don't miss the 99th running of America's most beloved holiday procession, hosted once again by the familiar faces of Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker.
The Definitive 2025 Macy's Day Parade Live Streaming Guide
The 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will air live nationally on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. ET. The broadcast and live stream are available in all time zones, with an afternoon replay scheduled on NBC for those who miss the morning show.
1. The Official Live Stream: Peacock's Multiview Experience
For the second year, the primary and most feature-rich streaming home for the Macy's Day Parade is NBCUniversal's streaming service, Peacock. This is the most direct and reliable way to get the official live feed of the parade without a cable subscription. The stream begins concurrently with the television broadcast at 8:30 a.m. ET.
The major update for 2025 is the introduction of a dedicated Multiview option, available exclusively to Peacock Premium and Premium Plus subscribers. This enhanced feature allows viewers to see different camera angles and perspectives of the parade simultaneously, offering a unique, immersive experience that goes beyond the standard broadcast.
- Platform: Peacock (Premium or Premium Plus subscription required).
- Time: Live stream starts at 8:30 a.m. ET.
- Key Feature: Exclusive Multiview option for multiple camera angles.
2. Cable-Free Streaming Services (The Cord-Cutter's Arsenal)
If you don't have cable but subscribe to a live TV streaming service that carries NBC, you can easily watch the parade live. These services are often the best alternative for those who want a traditional TV experience without the long-term commitment of a cable provider.
Many of these platforms offer free trials, which can be strategically used to watch the event at no cost. Be sure to check the current trial length and cancellation policy before signing up.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes NBC in most markets, offering the full live broadcast.
- YouTube TV: A comprehensive option that carries the NBC feed live.
- FuboTV: Known for its strong focus on live sports, FuboTV also includes NBC for parade coverage.
- Sling TV: Depending on your location and package (Sling Blue), you may have access to the local NBC affiliate.
- DirecTV Stream: Another reliable option that provides access to the live NBC broadcast.
3. International Streaming and VPN Access
Viewers outside the United States will find that the official NBC/Peacock stream is geo-restricted. To bypass this, the most effective and common method is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
A reliable VPN service, such as ExpressVPN, allows you to connect to a US-based server, making it appear as if you are watching from within the United States. Once connected, you can then access the live stream via Peacock or one of the live TV services. This is the only way for international fans to guarantee they see the parade live at the scheduled time.
- Method: Use a reputable VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN) to connect to a U.S. server.
- Access: Stream through Peacock or a live TV service subscription.
What's New in the 2025 Parade: Balloons, Performers, and the Route
The 99th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years, featuring a compelling lineup of new balloons, floats, and celebrity appearances. These elements are key to the parade's topical authority and are what viewers tune in to see.
The Newest Giant Balloons and Floats
The 2025 parade will feature a total of 34 balloons, including 18 giant helium balloons. The new character balloons are always a highlight, and this year’s additions include several pop culture favorites:
- Buzz Lightyear: A massive balloon representing the iconic Space Ranger from the Disney/Pixar universe.
- Mario: The beloved Nintendo plumber returns in a striking new design.
- Pac-Man: The classic arcade character will float down the route, a nostalgic addition for many fans.
- Shrek's Onion Carriage: A whimsical new float/balloon combination featuring the DreamWorks ogre.
- Derpy Tiger from K-Pop Demon Hunters: A nod to the growing influence of global pop culture, specifically K-Pop and animation.
Star-Studded Performance Lineup
The floats will be graced by a diverse and star-studded list of performers, adding musical excitement to the procession. The 2025 lineup includes:
- Jewel
- Debbie Gibson
- Busta Rhymes
- Mickey Guyton
- Lainey Wilson
- Lil Jon
- The cast of Broadway shows like Wicked: For Good, featuring Cynthia Erivo.
These musical acts perform on the 27 elaborate floats, which this year include the viral Labubu float and various thematic displays.
The 2025 Macy's Parade Route Details
While most viewers will be streaming the event, understanding the parade route is essential for both New York City locals and for appreciating the scope of the broadcast. The route for the 99th Annual Parade remains largely consistent with recent years.
The parade officially steps off at 8:30 a.m. ET from its starting point at West 77th Street and Central Park West, just south of the American Museum of Natural History.
From there, the procession follows a precise, multi-block path:
- It travels south along Central Park West to Columbus Circle.
- At Columbus Circle, it heads east onto Central Park South.
- It then turns south onto Sixth Avenue (Avenue of the Americas).
- The parade continues its journey south on Sixth Avenue until it reaches 34th Street.
- The grand finale occurs as the parade turns west onto 34th Street and concludes at Macy's Herald Square.
The television broadcast and live streams focus heavily on the sections of the route where the major performances and balloon handlers have the most space, ensuring viewers get the best possible view of the spectacle. The final performances happen directly in front of the flagship Macy's store at Herald Square, a moment that traditionally culminates in the arrival of Santa Claus.
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