K-Pop Demon Hunters and Labubu Highlight 99th Macy’s Parade

The 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in New York City, introducing a fresh lineup of characters and floats to the delight of spectators. This year, the parade featured the giant balloon characters Labubu and the Demogorgon, alongside new elements from the Netflix film KPop Demon Hunters. Traditional favorites like Popeye and his partner Olive Oyl were notably absent, marking a shift in the parade’s dynamic.

Parade executive producer Will Coss, who has overseen the event since 2021, emphasized the importance of incorporating contemporary elements that resonate with today’s audience. This year’s parade not only showcased the iconic Tom Turkey but also included a float representing the Demogorgon from the popular series Stranger Things, as well as a Lego float designed for fans to replicate at home.

As the parade commenced down Central Park West, a hush fell over the crowd before excitement surged with the arrival of the floats. Spectators, including families and children, eagerly awaited the sight of balloon Mario, followed by festive cheerleaders and a marching band from Northern Arizona University performing a medley of Lady Gaga hits.

Among the parade-goers was Tommy Johnson, a retired municipal worker from Connecticut, who had journeyed to the event for the past 15 years. He set up shop along the parade route, selling fuzzy turkey hats for $10 each. With only half an hour before the parade began, he had sold nearly all of his inventory. “It’s Thanksgiving. Everyone eats turkey. Why not wear it on your head?” he remarked.

The emotional moments continued as Glenda Cordova, a medical assistant from Texas, cheered for her son Anthony, who performed with the Lawrence D. Bell school band. Cordova expressed pride in her son’s dedication, noting that the family had prepared financially for the trip to New York City.

As the parade progressed, more beloved characters joined the lineup, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Wimpy Kid, and Spider-Man. Anticipation built for the Demogorgon float, which had two puppeteers, Paul Andrejco and Michael Bush, working tirelessly to animate the creature. Andrejco described the puppeteering process as “physical work,” requiring them to maintain stamina during the lengthy route.

The parade saw its fair share of challenges, including unpredictable winds that caused balloon handlers to work harder to keep their floats steady. Despite the breezy conditions, the atmosphere remained joyful, with diners at the Mandarin Oriental hotel enjoying a Thanksgiving buffet while watching the parade from above.

As the floats gathered at Herald Square for the finale, the temperature hovered in the low 40s Fahrenheit, but the festive spirit kept the crowd energized. The marching bands and performers prepared for their concluding musical acts, culminating in a spectacular display that celebrated the holiday spirit.

As the parade drew to a close, parade marshals directed the final floats and marchers away from Herald Square, reminding everyone to “Have a happy Thanksgiving!” The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade successfully blended nostalgia with modern entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended.