Santa, clowns, and protesters: Rain, Gaza demonstrations fail to dampen Macy’s parade spirit

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade faced steady rain, with attendees donning ponchos and umbrellas. Despite the weather, the event showcased its iconic lineup of balloons, floats, and performances, continuing the annual celebration undeterred. (Photo credit: AP)

This year’s parade featured 17 giant balloons, 22 floats, 15 heritage inflatables, 11 marching bands, 700 clowns, and 10 performance groups. Highlights included Snoopy, Bluey, and the WNBA champion New York Liberty. (Photo credit: Reuters)

Protesters briefly disrupted the parade, displaying Palestinian flags and banners reading “Don’t Celebrate Genocide.” Police arrested 21 demonstrators as part of the incident, which echoed similar protests from the previous year. (Photo credit: AP)

With temperatures in the upper 40s°F and winds under 10 mph, the parade proceeded safely. Organisers monitored wind speeds to ensure the large balloons could fly, adhering to NYC’s wind safety regulations. (Photo credit: AP)

The parade began at 8.30am on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and travelled 2.5 miles to end at Macy’s Herald Square. The route doubled as a stage for live performances, concluding with Santa Claus. (Photo credit: AP)

This year’s parade introduced new features, including Spider-Man and Minnie Mouse balloons and floats celebrating themes like pasta and the Bronx Zoo. This contrasts with its 1924 beginnings, which featured fairy tale scenes such as Mother Goose and Little Red Riding Hood. (Photo credit: Agencies)

Performers included Jennifer Hudson, Idina Menzel, Kylie Minogue, and Jimmy Fallon with The Roots. Other notable appearances were by Lea Salonga, Ariana Madix, and hip-hop artist T-Pain, adding glamour to the event. (Photo credit: Reuters)

Since its inception, the parade has only been cancelled three times during WWII from 1942–1944. This year, organisers reflected on its enduring legacy, celebrating the joy it brings to millions annually. (Photo credit: AP)

The event aired on NBC, hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker, and streamed on Peacock. Telemundo provided a Spanish simulcast with hosts Carlos Adyan and Andrea Meza. (Photo credit: Agencies)