New giant balloons take a test flight before the 100th Thanksgiving parade

New character inflatables took flight over the weekend as flight crews and ground teams prepared for the hundredth edition of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The practice runs took place on Saturday, November 7, during the annual Balloonfest gathering in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Handlers guided the massive figures across the open field to rehearse handling lines, turns, and elevation adjustments before the characters make their journey down the streets of Manhattan on Thursday, November 26, 2026.

This year represents a landmark milestone for the beloved tradition, which first took place in 1924. As the holiday approaches, planners and volunteer teams use the New Jersey test flights to ensure that every tether and hold is secure. The peaceful autumn session gave organizers and onlookers a first look at the artistry and scale planned for the centennial procession.

New faces join the lineup

Several fresh figures are joining the procession this year, offering a blend of familiar nostalgic personalities and modern storybook favorites. According to People and Macy's, seven new character balloons are set to debut during the event. The additions include a 47.2-foot-tall Bluey, as well as a 33.6-foot Hello Kitty holding an apple, bringing recognizable color to the city skyline.

Returning favorites will also appear in newly redesigned arrangements. Joe Cool and Woodstock will fly together, with the Joe Cool balloon reaching 41.6 feet tall and stretching 57 feet long. Sorcerer's Apprentice Mickey Mouse will also take to the air, continuing a legacy that began when Mickey first appeared in the parade in 1934.

Characters across generations

The roster of new additions extends further across pop culture and original parade history. The skies will feature Underdog, Earl the Squirrel, and Buckaroo Bob the Minion among the featured giants. Each character requires dedicated teams of handlers who practice moving in unison across diverse outdoor conditions.

Alongside licensed storybook icons, the event will introduce Billie Brightpaw, an original bear created directly by the parade team. The handmade design honors the centennial spirit by blending traditional parade artistry with fresh festive character building. The team spent Saturday adjusting Billie Brightpaw alongside the other fresh entrants to confirm balance and buoyancy.

Watching the tradition unfold

For those who enjoy the preparation as much as the main walk, public viewings begin the day before the official march. Balloons can be seen being inflated on November 25 outside the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan. Neighbors and travelers often gather along the sidewalks to watch the fabric shapes gradually expand into towering figures under protective netting.

The full procession then begins on Thanksgiving morning as the inflatables glide between the avenues toward Herald Square. Television coverage is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. on parade day, offering viewers across the country a clear look at the hundredth anniversary march.