Macy’s hosted the first Thanksgiving Day parade now known as Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The first parade took place in New York City in 1924. Macy’s organized it to promote the opening of its Christmas shopping season, and the event featured floats, performers, animals, and employees in costume. Santa Claus appeared at the end, establishing a tradition that continues in the parade’s modern format.
The event was initially called the Macy’s Christmas Parade. It was renamed the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1927. Large character balloons became a defining feature later, beginning with Felix the Cat in 1927.
The parade is sometimes confused with older civic or department-store holiday events, but Macy’s is the company directly responsible for the New York parade’s origin. Santa’s closing appearance links the parade to the start of the American Christmas shopping season.