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Bluey is set to take flight in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade once again. Photo by the author

When and Where is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation

The traditional Macy's Thanksgiving Day Balloon Inflation takes place on Thanksgiving eve in the streets around the American Museum of Natural History. The inflation is set for Wednesday, November 27, 2024. Exact details and timing will be confirmed closer to that date, but in years past, the event has run from noon-6pm with visitors entering the fray at 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue, then heading east to Central Park West, north to 77th Street, and making a 3/4 circle of the museum, before continuing north on Central Park West to 86th Street for a glimpse of floats being built on the side streets.

Gone are the days when parade enthusiasts could gather and watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation free from crowds. These days, there are security checks and police monitor the galleries, which increase as the night continues. Plan to arrive early to beat the crowds. The balloons take shape quickly and are kept earthbound by giant nets.

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You can get very close to the balloons for a cool view if you time your visit right.

Top Tips for Families Visiting the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation

Leave the strollers at home. It's hard to push them through the galleries. We'd recommend baby carriers or waiting until your child is a bit older and can endure long periods of standing.

Pack light. Bags larger than 12-by-6-by-12 aren't allowed, neither are weapons, drones, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, alcohol, or pets, so leave Fido at home.

Bring snacks and water. The loop takes at least 45 minutes to complete. So bring essentials or dine beforehand.

Don’t try to meet up with friends on-site. If you want to go as a group, travel to the site together or meet a few blocks away. It's nearly impossible to connect once you're in the fray.

Beating the line. In the past, we've advised visitors that the most foolproof way to beat the crowds is to visit the American Museum of Natural History before the start of the balloon inflation. With the earlier start time and a different route, which does not pass the main doors on Central Park West, we're not sure this is useful. If you want to give it a try, the museum is open until 5:30pm on Thanksgiving eve, but make your reservations to visit now.

Consider a viewing party. The New-York Historical Society hosts a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation viewing party for members who contribute at the family level or above. If you're already a fan of the museum, a membership might make sense to gain this perk! A less costly option is to strike up a friendship with someone who lives on 77th or 81st Streets between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue.

Where to Eat Near the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation

It’s best to avoid restaurants on Columbus Avenue opposite the museum—they'll be packed. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants within a few blocks. Call ahead to make sure your choice isn't closing early for the holiday.

Planning on going to the parade the next day? For everything you need to know, see our 2024 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade post.

This post, originally published in November 2013, is updated annually.

Unless noted, photos courtesy of Macy's