This year is the 80th year of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Originally started by Macy’s largely immigrant employees in 1924, the parade has become an American tradition. The parade has gone on every year except during the early 40s as the nation conserved rations and dealt with the seriousness of WWII. Macy’s donated the balloons to the war effort as the rubber was a much-needed resource. The parade resumed in 1945.

The 1947 film, Miracle on 34th Street brought the parade to the attention of the public outside of New York City and with the advent of televised parades in the 50s, the entire country was able to watch and enjoy the spectacle. Over the years more balloons and musical acts were added, the collaboration with Walt Disney leading to the addition of many character balloons.

The parade always goes on, rain or shine and always features great music, marching bands, stars of Broadway and television and of course, Santa Claus.

For information on this year’s parade route and entertainment, check out the official Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade website.