New Characters Take Center Stage at 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade brought a fresh wave of excitement to New York City on November 23, 2023, featuring new characters that captured the imagination of attendees. Among the highlights were a giant floating Labubu, a popular plush toy, and the Demogorgon, a monster from the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things.” The parade, a time-honored tradition, saw the departure of classic figures like Popeye, who has not appeared since 1980, making way for contemporary icons that resonate with today’s audiences.

Will Coss, the parade’s executive producer since 2021, noted the evolution of the event. “We incorporate brand-new elements that are speaking to the moment,” he stated, highlighting the inclusion of characters from the Netflix film “KPop Demon Hunters” and a float designed for Lego enthusiasts. This year’s parade represented a clear shift from nostalgic favorites to modern favorites, reflecting changing cultural tastes.

As the parade progressed down Central Park West, the atmosphere was electric. Tom Turkey led the procession, generating cheers from the crowd. Among the many participants was a marching band from Northern Arizona University, performing a festive medley of songs by Lady Gaga. Thousands of spectators lined the streets, eager to witness the spectacle, while others gathered in Central Park for a better view.

One vendor, Tommy Johnson, 66, a retired municipal worker from Connecticut, sold stuffed turkey hats for $10 each. Arriving at 2:30 a.m., he had driven from New Haven with 100 hats and had sold all but four by the time the parade began. “It’s Thanksgiving. Everyone eats turkey. Why not wear it on your head?” he remarked, despite knowing his family disapproved of his annual tradition.

As the parade continued, families celebrated their loved ones participating in the event. Glenda Cordova, a medical assistant from Hurst, Texas, cheered for her son, Anthony, who marched with the Lawrence D. Bell school band. Anthony had dedicated much of the year to perfecting his drumming skills, and his family made the trip to New York City to support him.

The parade featured familiar characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants and Spider-Man, but the anticipation for the Demogorgon float was palpable. Puppeteers Paul Andrejco and Michael Bush operated the intricate float, which required significant physical stamina. Andrejco explained that their company, Puppet Heap, collaborated with Macy’s to design the creature, which has its own unique movements. To prepare, the puppeteers underwent rigorous training to manage the physical demands of the role.

Among the enthusiastic crowd was 9-year-old Vanna Vargas, who was thrilled to see her favorite character, Labubu. Her grandfather, Sgt. Aliro Pellerano of the New York City Police Department, positioned her for a perfect photo opportunity as they awaited the float. Vanna expressed her desire for more Labubus, saying, “A thousand!”

As the parade turned east at 59th Street, balloon handlers faced challenges from sudden crosswinds. An Arctic fox balloon, being ridden by the Elf on a Shelf, nearly touched the pavement as handlers struggled to maintain control. Above the chaos, guests at the Mandarin Oriental hotel enjoyed a serene view of the festivities from their Thanksgiving buffet, priced at $245 per person.

By around 10:30 a.m., the parade reached Herald Square, where the floats and performers gathered for the grand finale. Despite the brisk temperatures, the energy remained high as cheerleaders and stilt walkers prepared for their final performance. The atmosphere was festive and lively, with parade organizers directing traffic and encouraging participants.

As the parade concluded, the marching bands took a moment to rest, grateful for the successful event. The spirit of Thanksgiving filled the air, with one last shout from a parade marshal: “Have a happy Thanksgiving!” The day marked a blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring that the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade continues to be a cherished experience for generations to come.