How to Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2023

Updated: Feb. 05, 2024

Wondering how to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year? It's easy! Here's everything you need to know.

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Running since 1924, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an American fall staple. It’s an iconic tradition in the company of turkey, football and Black Friday sales. Every year, millions tune in to watch the vibrant Thanksgiving festivities. Whether you plan to watch the parade in person or stream it from the comfort of your home, here are all the details on how to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2023.

Where can I watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2023?

This year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be held on Thursday, November 23 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST. But if you live outside of the Big Apple or simply don’t feel like venturing off your couch to take it in, you’re in luck. There are several ways to watch the parade via broadcast and live stream. Be sure to grab your favorite people, appetizers and beverages, and put your feet up for a good time.

NBC is the official broadcaster and host, so you can watch on the network’s TV channel, website or through the NBC app. CBS also televises the parade with its own hosts.

Whether through NBC or CBS, you can also stream the parade through a variety of subscription services. Exact programming may vary by location.

  • Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service
  • Sling TV, an on-demand and live-streaming platform
  • Paramount+, CBS’s streaming service
  • Hulu + Live TV, an on-demand and live-streaming platform
  • DirecTV Stream, an on-demand and live-streaming platform that allows you to stream to multiple devices at once
  • YouTube TV, an on-demand and live-streaming platform that offers digital DVR recordings

What’s the line-up for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

There’s so much to look forward to at the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, no matter who you are or what you’re into. It really does appeal to all ages and walks of life, and puts a smile on so many faces nationwide. Look forward to seeing enormous balloons, including popular character shapes like Pikachu, Bluey, Minions and Grogu (aka Baby Yoda). Oversized floats and clowns will also make an appearance.

This year’s parade line-up also includes plenty of performances and entertainment. Those watching on TV will be treated to Broadway performances, marching bands and the famous Radio City Rockettes. The grand finale? Santa and his reindeer officially ushering in the Christmas season.

No matter where you’re watching from, take in the deep history and interesting facts quintessential to this fun parade.

Do you need tickets for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

If you’re hoping to catch the parade in person, you don’t need tickets. Just grab your preferred place along the 2.5 mile-route well ahead of time and you’ll be set. Much of the parade happens up in the air, so it’s hard to get a bad spot. The parade starts at 77th Street and Central Park West and ends at 34th Street and Macy’s Herald Square.