The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airs on November 27 at 8:30 a.m. ET, with both TV and streaming options available. You can watch it live on NBC or stream it through Peacock and most major live-TV streaming platforms. An encore broadcast will air in the afternoon. This guide breaks down every way you can tune in.
How to Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the biggest holiday traditions in the U.S., and millions around the world tune in each year. Whether you’re watching from home, streaming on your phone, or catching the encore broadcast later in the day, there are plenty of easy ways to enjoy it.
The 2025 parade broadcasts live on Thursday, November 27, kicking off early so viewers everywhere can join in the holiday fun.
Broadcast Time and Schedule
The parade begins bright and early at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, making it the perfect start to Thanksgiving morning. The broadcast typically runs until around 12:00 p.m. ET, featuring three and a half hours of floats, balloons, performers, marching bands, Broadway casts, and holiday surprises.
If you can’t catch the morning broadcast, don’t worry. A full encore presentation usually airs around 2:00 p.m. ET, giving everyone a second chance to watch.
Watching on TV
The simplest way to watch the parade is the classic one: tune in on your television. The 2025 broadcast airs nationally on NBC, which has covered the parade for decades.
If you have cable, satellite, or a digital antenna, you’re already set. NBC is one of the most widely available channels in the country, so even viewers with basic access can watch without needing extra subscriptions.
Streaming the Parade Live
Don’t have cable? No problem — the parade is fully accessible online.
The official streaming home of the broadcast is Peacock, NBC’s streaming service. It delivers the parade live straight from New York City to your phone, tablet, laptop, or smart TV.
In addition to Peacock, viewers with live-TV streaming services that include NBC can also watch online. This covers most of the major platforms, such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and Sling (depending on your region). As long as NBC is part of your channel lineup, you can stream the parade live from anywhere.
Watching from Mobile Devices
If you’re traveling for the holiday, cooking in the kitchen, or simply prefer watching on your phone, the parade is easy to access from mobile apps.
Peacock’s app works on all major devices, and most streaming service apps allow seamless viewing on smartphones and tablets. You can even cast the broadcast to your TV if you want to switch screens mid-parade.
This flexibility makes it simple to tune in no matter where you are on Thanksgiving morning.
What to Expect From the 2025 Parade
Every year, the parade brings something new — new balloons, fresh musical performances, and plenty of holiday spectacle. The 2025 edition promises a mix of tradition and innovation, keeping longtime fans excited while introducing new elements.
Expect to see:
- Giant character balloons drifting above Manhattan
- Elaborate floats decorated for the holidays
- Top recording artists performing hit songs
- Broadway casts delivering standout numbers
- Dance groups, cheer squads, and high-school marching bands
- Santa Claus arriving at the finale, marking the official start of the Christmas season
The lineup changes every year, but the signature Macy’s parade magic stays the same.
Why the Parade Starts Earlier Now
In recent years, the parade has shifted to an 8:30 a.m. ET start time instead of the previous 9:00 a.m. This update allows the broadcast to sync better across time zones and ensures that the full lineup fits into the national programming schedule.
It also means viewers on the West Coast start at 5:30 a.m. PT, but early wake-ups have become part of the tradition for many families who love to watch live.
Watching the Parade Internationally
Viewers outside the United States often want to tune in too. While access varies by region, most international audiences rely on streaming platforms.
Peacock may be available depending on your country, and many viewers outside the U.S. access the parade through global live-TV streaming packages that include American network channels.
If you’re outside the U.S., the safest plan is to check which platforms in your region carry NBC or offer live American broadcasts.
Tips to Prepare for Parade Morning
A little preparation can help ensure you don’t miss a moment:
- Check your streaming subscription the night before so there are no login issues.
- Update your apps, especially Peacock or your live-TV streaming service.
- Set reminders or alarms, especially if you’re watching outside the Eastern Time zone.
- Have backup options ready, such as switching from TV to mobile if needed.
- Plan your holiday schedule around the broadcast if watching live is important to you.
The parade is a tradition for many families, and a smoother setup means a more enjoyable morning.
Why Millions Tune In Every Year
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a holiday favorite for nearly a century. Beyond the entertainment value, it creates a sense of togetherness — families gather in living rooms, kids watch their favorite characters float through New York City, and the event sets a warm, festive tone for the rest of the day.
For many, Thanksgiving doesn’t officially begin until the parade starts.
Whether you’re watching for nostalgia, the music, the balloons, the Broadway performances, or Santa’s grand entrance, the parade represents the heart of American holiday tradition.
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FAQs
What time does the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade start?
It begins at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time.
Which channel is broadcasting the parade?
The parade airs live on NBC.
Can I stream the parade online?
Yes, it streams live on Peacock and on any live-TV streaming service that carries NBC.
Is there an encore broadcast?
Yes, there is typically an afternoon encore around 2:00 p.m. ET.
Can I watch without cable?
Absolutely — Peacock and most major streaming platforms make the parade accessible without traditional cable.
Is the parade available outside the U.S.?
Viewers outside the U.S. may access it through streaming platforms that offer NBC in their region.
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