Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025: How to watch free, streaming...

This year’s holiday season kicks off today with the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a beloved tradition that brings millions of people together every year. On Thursday, Nov. 27, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern, the streets of New York City will come alive with giant character balloons, dazzling floats, marching bands and star-studded performances. Fans not attending in person can watch the live broadcast from home on NBC or stream it for free. There’s also an encore airing at 2 p.m. Eastern on NBC for those who want to relive the magic later in the day. How can I watch the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? Here are the best streaming options for fans who want to watch without cable, as well as for Fubo streaming platform users affected by the NBC carriage dispute: DIRECTV: Offers NBC channels and a five-day free trial followed by a $40 introductory discount if you choose to continue after the trial endsPeacock TV: NBCU’s official streaming platform offers live sports, local NBC feeds, and on-demand shows Related: Fubo’s NBC blackout explained: Best alternatives, and free streaming info Parade route and viewing tips The parade follows its traditional 2.5-mile route through Manhattan, starting at 77th Street and Central Park West and ending at Macy’s Herald Square. Public viewing areas include the west side of Central Park West and sections along Sixth Avenue. What’s new for 2025? This year’s parade promises exciting new additions: Mario makes his parade debut alongside classic favorites like Snoopy and Pikachu.A whimsical LEGO float featuring penguins and Yetis brings winter fun to life.The Master Chocolatier Ballroom float from Lindt celebrates sweet holiday indulgence.Fans of retro gaming will love the PAC-MAN float, honoring 45 years of the arcade icon.Plus, the tiniest float ever, The Littlest Float by Goldfish®, will charm spectators. Star-studded performances The NBC broadcast will feature an incredible lineup of musical acts and Broadway numbers. Expect performances from Cynthia Erivo, who will open the parade with a number from “Wicked: For Good,” as well as appearances by Busta Rhymes, Ciara, Jewel, Lainey Wilson, Foreigner and more. Broadway fans can look forward to songs from “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Just in Time” and “Ragtime.” More details on streaming options About DIRECTV DIRECTV, which also gives customers a free trial, offers four packages if you continue with the service after your trial ends: Entertainment for $69.99; Choice for $84.99; Ultimate for $109.99; and Premiere for $159.99. Choice offers the most channels for sports enthusiasts. About Peacock Peacock features movies, hit television shows and current NBC programming. It also offers sports coverage for multiple events, including NFL, Big Ten football, Premier League soccer, PGA Tour and more. Catch all the action for $7.99 per month or $79.99 annually.