2024 Thanksgiving Eve Balloon Inflating

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Michelle Young

Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Inflation

Watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons being inflated the day before the parade.

Date: Wednesday Nov 27th, 2024
Time: Noon to 6:00 PM 
Location: Enter at West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue

The Macy's Balloon Inflation Celebration has been held on Thanksgiving Eve since 1994. For some people, meeting up and watching the balloons being inflated for the Thanksgiving Day Parade is more of an annual event than the parade itself!

During this event, inflation teams and Parade officials prep the giant balloons, novelty balloons, and balloonicles for the following day's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

While historically the balloons were inflated late at night, this event now takes place mostly during the daylight hours.

Entry & Exit Locations

Spectators can enter the inflation viewing area at West 72nd Street and Central Park West. The balloon viewing path winds around the American Museum of Natural History.

Exit the viewing area at West 81st Street and Central Park West.

Prohibited Items

Bags or backpacks larger than 12x6x12, coolers, alcoholic beverages, chairs, weapons, drones, pets, and umbrellas are expressly prohibited, and participants will be screened prior to entering the viewing route.

Tips

Strollers, while not prohibited, are difficult to push through the galleries. Try baby carriers or wait until children are older and can handle long periods of standing.

If you get hangry easily, it's recommended to bring snacks or eat beforehand as the loop takes at least 45 minutes to complete.