New Yorkers lap up annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

28 November 2019, 21:57

New York enjoyed the annual Thanksgiving parade
New York enjoyed the annual Thanksgiving parade. Picture: PA
Nick Hardinges

By Nick Hardinges

Big balloons filled the skies as New Yorkers and tourists lined Manhattan's streets to enjoy the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The blimps were forced to fly slightly lower than usual due to the adverse weather but it was not enough to put folk off from joining in on the celebrations.

Macy's vice president Susan Tercero announced that the balloons would be flown through Manhattan's streets, half an hour before the parade started.

Spongebob flew through Manhattan during the parade
Spongebob flew through Manhattan during the parade. Picture: PA
An Olaf from Frozen balloon was one of several eye-catching balloons
An Olaf from Frozen balloon was one of several eye-catching balloons. Picture: PA

Parade officials and the New York Police Department were closely watching wind gauges along the 2.5-mile route through New York's bustling streets.

The 16 helium balloons would not have been allowed to stay afloat if the wind reached dangerous levels, which has happened just once in the event's history back in 1971.

Sustained wind speeds of 24mph were expected, which is one mile per hour faster than what is allowed under the city's regulations.

Pikachu was allowed to brave the winds and stay afloat
Pikachu was allowed to brave the winds and stay afloat. Picture: PA
Marchers and dancers lined the streets of New York
Marchers and dancers lined the streets of New York. Picture: PA
The blimps were almost grounded due to the weather
The blimps were almost grounded due to the weather. Picture: PA

The parade is one of New York's most popular events and features 8,000 marchers, two dozen floats, marching bands and ended with an appearance from Santa Claus.

A number of celebrity guests were among those performing at the carnival including Billy Porter of Pose, and singers Celine Dion, Kelly Rowland and Idina Menzel.