Don’t Miss the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!
On Thursday, November 27, 2025, the 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marches through Manhattan from 8:30 a.m. to noon ET—featuring towering balloons, dazzling floats, marching bands, and holiday magic. Whether you’re in New York or tuning in from afar, this beloved tradition signals the arrival of the festive season.
Tripstagram Tip: Arrive along Central Park West between West 75th and 61st St. at dawn for prime street-side views.
What it is
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual holiday-morning spectacle held in New York City, beginning in Manhattan’s Upper West Side and ending at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store on 34th street. It features giant character balloons, themed floats, marching bands, and live performances. It is presented by the department store Macy’s and has become a staple of the Thanksgiving season in America.
Date & Time
2025 Edition: Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Starts at 8:30 a.m. ET (7:30 a.m. CT) and runs roughly until noon (or 11:00 a.m. CT).
Viewers watching in person are advised to arrive early (some begin lining up by 6 a.m. local time) for good spots.
Route & Best Viewing Spots
The parade begins near West 77th Street & Central Park West on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
It winds down through Manhattan and ends at the Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square (34th Street).
The best publicly accessible viewing area is along Central Park West between West 75th and West 61st Streets.
Why It Matters / History Highlights
The inaugural parade took place on November 27, 1924.
Originally, it featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo and store employees in costume.
Giant balloons debuted in 1927, replacing live animals as a signature feature.
During World War II (1942-44) the parade was suspended due to helium and rubber shortages.
Today it draws millions of spectators in person and many more via broadcast; it has become a major marker of the holiday season.
Radio City Rockettes: A Holiday Spectacular in New York City
What to Expect:
Step inside the world-famous Radio City Music Hall and experience one of the most beloved holiday traditions in the U.S.—the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes. With sparkling costumes, iconic kicklines, and timeless choreography, this high-energy, 90-minute performance brings festive magic to life right in the heart of Manhattan. From toy soldiers to twinkling lights and a live orchestra, every scene captures the wonder of the season.
Tripstagram Travel Tip:
Arrive early to snap photos of the glowing marquee on Sixth Avenue—it’s one of New York’s most Instagram-worthy holiday sights. For the best seats, book your tickets in advance (shows run early November through early January).
Why Go:
Whether you’re chasing holiday cheer, family memories, or simply the spirit of New York in winter, the Rockettes deliver an unforgettable performance that’s as iconic as the city skyline.
Radio City Music Hall, New York City
November 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Tickets available at rockettes.com
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting: The Heart of Holiday Magic
What to Expect:
Each winter, New York City’s skyline glows a little brighter when the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree comes to life. The lighting ceremony, complete with live performances, celebrity appearances, and a countdown watched by millions, marks the official start of the holiday season in Manhattan. Standing tall above the iconic ice-skating rink, the towering spruce adorned with over 50,000 twinkling lights and a dazzling Swarovski crystal star is a must-see symbol of Christmas in the city.
Tripstagram Travel Tip:
Arrive early or book nearby rooftop access to catch the ceremony from above. The area fills fast, so plan your visit with time to explore the Fifth Avenue holiday window displays, another NYC holiday classic just steps away.
Why Go:
It’s more than a tree lighting; it’s a moment of pure magic shared by travelers and locals alike. Whether you’re watching the first sparkle in person or skating beneath its glow, the Rockefeller Center Tree captures the wonder of winter in New York.
Rockefeller Center, Midtown Manhattan
Tree Lighting: The Christmas tree lighting ceremony is December 3, 2025, at 10:00 pm ET. The tree is lit daily from 5:00 am until midnight and remains lit for 24 hours on Christmas Eve. The tree remains on display through early January.
Free event; arrive early for best views, as spots are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park: London’s Festive Playground
What to Expect:
Each holiday season, Hyde Park in London transforms into a glittering Winter Wonderland, a sprawling celebration of lights, laughter, and seasonal cheer. From ice skating beneath the stars and thrilling carnival rides to cozy alpine bars and Christmas markets filled with handmade gifts, this event captures the magic of the season like nowhere else in the UK. With live shows, a giant observation wheel, and the famous Bavarian Village serving festive treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy—families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.
Tripstagram Travel Tip:
Visit on a weekday or during the morning hours to skip the biggest crowds and snap the best photos before dusk. The Magical Ice Kingdom and Giant Wheel offer breathtaking shots, especially at sunset when London twinkles in the background. Admission is free, but attractions require advance tickets, so book early to make the most of your visit.
Why Go:
Few places capture the Christmas spirit quite like Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. It’s the ultimate holiday day out where city lights meet festive sights, and every moment feels picture-perfect for your winter travel story.
Hyde Park, London, England
Mid-November – Early January
Free entry; attractions ticketed. Details at hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Holiday Magic at Walt Disney World
What to Expect:
When night falls over Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World, the holiday spirit shines brighter than ever during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This after-hours event transforms the park into a winter wonderland filled with festive parades, snow on Main Street, exclusive character meet-and-greets, and the spectacular Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. Enjoy complimentary cookies and hot cocoa as you explore themed rides, dance parties, and twinkling holiday décor that make this one of Disney’s most enchanting seasonal celebrations.
Tripstagram Travel Tip:
Tickets are limited, so book early — this event often sells out weeks in advance. Arrive early to enjoy shorter ride wait times before the party officially begins, and don’t miss the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade for classic holiday moments with Mickey, Minnie, and Santa himself.
Why Go:
It’s Disney magic with a holly-jolly twist. From the glowing Cinderella Castle to the falling “snow” on Main Street U.S.A., every corner of Magic Kingdom captures the joy and nostalgia of Christmas, making it the perfect holiday getaway for families and Disney fans alike.
Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida
Select nights mid-November through late December
A separate event ticket is required. Details at disneyworld.disney.go.com
