The Definitive Guide: Exact Thanksgiving Parade Start Times And How To Get The Best View In 2025

The annual tradition of Thanksgiving Day Parades remains one of the most beloved holiday spectacles in the United States, and in 2025, the major city events are scheduled to kick off early on Thursday, November 27. Whether you plan to brave the crowds in Manhattan, Philadelphia, or tune in from the comfort of your home, knowing the exact start time is critical to catching the colossal balloons, dazzling floats, and star-studded performances.

For those eager to plan their holiday morning, the 99th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is confirmed to begin at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET), setting the pace for a morning of festive entertainment across the country. This guide provides the definitive schedule, viewing tips, and all the crucial details you need for the 2025 holiday.

The Essential 2025 Thanksgiving Day Parade Schedule: Start Times by City

The biggest and most-watched parades all take place on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025. While the Macy's event dominates the national broadcast, several other major cities host massive, long-running parades that are integral to their local traditions. Here is the comprehensive start time list for the country's most famous processions:

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• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (New York City): 8:30 a.m. ET
• 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade (Philadelphia): 9:00 a.m. ET (Pre-show begins at 8:30 a.m. ET)
• Chicago Thanksgiving Parade (Chicago): 8:00 a.m. CT
• H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade (Houston): 9:00 a.m. CT

These times are crucial for planning, especially for East Coast viewers who will see the New York and Philadelphia parades start almost simultaneously. Remember that local start times are always listed in the city's respective time zone.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: The Ultimate 2025 Viewing Guide

The Macy's Parade is the undisputed heavyweight champion of Thanksgiving festivities. The 99th edition in 2025 promises new floats, celebrity appearances, and the iconic giant balloons.

Official Start Time and Duration

The parade officially steps off at 8:30 a.m. ET and typically runs for three hours, concluding at 12:00 p.m. ET.

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The 2025 Route and Viewing Zones

The procession begins near the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side, specifically at 77th Street and Central Park West (CPW). The route then proceeds south along CPW before turning onto Central Park South and then heading down 6th Avenue to the final stop at Macy's Herald Square.

Pro Tip for Live Viewing: Crowds are notoriously thick, particularly as the parade moves into Midtown Manhattan. The best, least-crowded viewing spots are generally along Central Park West between 77th and 61st Streets. Arriving by 6:00 a.m. to secure a front-row spot is strongly advised.

How to Watch on TV and Stream

For those at home, the parade is broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock. The broadcast starts at 8:30 a.m. in all time zones. This means viewers on the West Coast will see a tape-delayed broadcast starting at 8:30 a.m. PT, while the East Coast watches live at 8:30 a.m. ET.

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A Spanish-language simulcast is also available for viewers.

The Secret Pre-Parade Event: Balloon Inflation Night

One of the most exciting, yet often overlooked, events is the public viewing of the giant balloon inflation. This spectacle takes place the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, November 26, 2025, in the streets surrounding the American Museum of Natural History, typically between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. ET.

This is a fantastic opportunity to see the colossal characters, such as the new 2025 additions like the Buzz Lightyear balloon and the returning favorites like Snoopy and Pikachu, up close before they take to the skies.

Beyond New York: Start Times for Other Major U.S. Parades

While the Macy's Parade gets the most attention, the tradition is strong in other major metropolitan areas. These parades offer similar floats, bands, and high-flying entertainment, often with a more local flavor and fewer crowds.

Philadelphia: The 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade

As the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country, Philadelphia's event is a cherished tradition. The 2025 parade will begin its broadcast with a pre-show at 8:30 a.m. ET, with the official parade kick-off at 9:00 a.m. ET.

• Parade Route: The procession starts at 20th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard, heads down 16th Street, and concludes at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, offering an iconic backdrop for the finale.
• Viewing: The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a prime viewing area with plenty of space.

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

Chicago's parade, known for its vibrant local flavor and spectacular cultural performances, begins at 8:00 a.m. CT and runs until 11:00 a.m. CT.

• Parade Route: The parade marches down the iconic State Street in the Loop, making it highly accessible for public viewing.
• Key Entities: Expect to see celebrity guests, marching bands, and large inflatable characters unique to the Midwest.

Houston: The H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade

Houston’s parade, a tradition for over 75 years, is a major event in the South. In 2025, the parade will begin at 9:00 a.m. CT.

• Parade Route: The route winds through downtown Houston, featuring a diverse array of floats and high school marching bands.

Topical Authority: Essential Tips for a Flawless Parade Morning

To ensure your Thanksgiving morning is filled with festive joy and not logistical headaches, follow these expert tips, which are relevant whether you are attending in New York or watching from your couch.

For In-Person Viewers:

• Arrive Early, *Very* Early: For a good spot along the Macy's route, aim to be in position between 6:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. ET. The best spots are often claimed before sunrise.
• Dress in Layers: November weather in the Northeast can be unpredictable and cold, especially before the sun is high. Warm clothing, hats, and gloves are non-negotiable.
• Bring Supplies: Pack a thermos with hot coffee or cocoa and a few small snacks. Once you secure a spot, you won't want to leave.
• Utilize Hotels: If budget allows, booking a hotel room along the parade route (especially on Central Park West) offers the ultimate warm and comfortable viewing experience.

For At-Home Viewers:

• Check Your Time Zone: Remember the 8:30 a.m. ET start time is the live broadcast. If you are in the Central, Mountain, or Pacific time zones, the broadcast will be tape-delayed to start at 8:30 a.m. local time, allowing you to watch the full three hours while your turkey roasts.
• Streaming Options: Peacock is the official streaming home for the Macy's Parade, offering a reliable, high-definition alternative to traditional cable.
• Plan Your Feast: With the parade ending around noon ET (or local time), this is the perfect opportunity to finish your holiday cooking and transition seamlessly into your Thanksgiving meal.

By keeping this 2025 schedule and these expert tips in mind, you can fully embrace the holiday spirit and ensure you don't miss a minute of the dazzling floats, the incredible marching bands, or the moment Santa Claus officially arrives to usher in the Christmas season.