Here's How To Watch The Macy's Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Inflation 2025

NEW YORK CITY — This Thursday is the 99th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and on Wednesday night, there's a special chance to watch the gigantic character balloons get inflated and come to life on the Upper West Side.

Every year, the inflation takes place around the perimeter of the Museum of Natural History.

To see the balloons come to life before the parade, head over to 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue on Wednesday between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m., where there will be a security checkpoint entry, according to the Macy's website. Large backpacks, coolers, alcoholic beverages, chairs, weapons, drones, pets, and umbrellas are not allowed.

People looking to beat the long line can start queuing up at noon, but the viewing doesn't officially begin until 1 p.m. The event is free and no tickets are required.

From there, visitors will be able to line up to see six of the inflatables — including Mario, Buzz Lightyear and Shrek — come to life.

Bring a raincoat just in case, since there Tuesday through Wednesday night is predicted to see some rain, according to the National Weather Service.

This year, the parade will include 34 gigantic balloons, 28 floats, 11 marching bands, 33 clown crews, and 4 "balloonicles" in tow.

The parade starts at 8:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning and follows a 2.5-mile route from the Upper West Side to Herald Square in Midtown.

For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.