The Immigrant-Inspired Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade: A National Tradition

A day in New York City when animals from the Central Park Zoo marched down the streets. This wasn't a dream, but a reality in 1924 during the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The event, started by immigrants working at Macy’s, was meant to blend European parade traditions with American Thanksgiving. It took off immediately, becoming a hit among locals. The parade wasn't just a marketing stunt; it was a gift from Macy’s employees to America. Originally known as the Macy’s Christmas Parade, it initially stretched from 145th Street to 34th Street. However, by 1927, real animals were replaced by giant, helium-filled balloons after some children were frightened by the lions and tigers. These balloons added a new twist to the parade. Afterward, the balloons were released into the sky with Macy’s addresses sewn in, creating an exciting hunt for the lucky finders. Not everything was perfect, though. In 1932, a near-disastrous incident occurred when a pilot attempted to catch a cat-shaped balloon and crashed her plane. This marked the end of the balloon-hunting game. The parade took a pause during World War II out of respect, and even in difficult times like after President Kennedy's assassination in 1963, the show went on. Despite these challenges, the parade has become a symbol of the start of the holiday season, watched by millions on TV and in person.