NEW YORK — The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to soar with a lineup filled with notable stars. Announced on Thursday, the performance roster includes notable names such as actress and singer Jennifer Hudson, dance music legend Kylie Minogue, and Broadway favorite Billy Porter. This marks an increase in star power compared to previous years.
These celebrated performers will be taking the stage right in Herald Square, the heart of Macy’s flagship store. Alongside them will be Cynthia Erivo, known for her role in “Wicked,” and Cole Escola, who has gained recognition as both the star and writer of the hit unconventional Broadway show “Oh, Mary!”
In addition to the above, the parade will feature a host of other announced celebrities, including reality TV star Ariana Madix, Broadway powerhouse Idina Menzel, hip-hop artist T-Pain, members of the WNBA champion New York Liberty, and the popular country duo Dan + Shay.
The musical performances during the parade will showcase a wide array of talent, including The War and Treaty, Lea Salonga, Kylie Cantrall, The Temptations, Chlöe, Charli D’Amelio, Jimmy Fallon with The Roots, Coco Jones, Walker Hayes, Rachel Platten, Bishop Briggs, Joey McIntyre, Natti Natasha, and ballet dancers Tiler Peck and Roman Mejia.
Kickstarting the holiday tradition, which will commence at 8:30 a.m. across all time zones on November 28, actor Alison Brie, known for her work in “Glow” and currently starring in Peacock’s “Apples Never Fall,” will have the honor of leading the parade.
This year’s spectacle will feature an impressive lineup: 17 giant character balloons, 22 floats, 15 novelty and heritage inflatables, 11 marching bands, 700 clowns, and 10 performance groups.
The parade will be broadcast on NBC and available for streaming on Peacock. Viewers will be guided through the festivities by “Today” show hosts savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker, while a Spanish-language broadcast on Telemundo will be presented by Carlos Adyan and Andrea Meza.
Broadway will also take center stage, featuring performances from “Death Becomes Her,” “Hell’s Kitchen,” “The Outsiders,” along with the legendary Radio City Rockettes and “Riverdance” performers.
Traditionally, the Macy’s parade marks the beginning of the holiday season, with crowds reaching six people deep along the route, eagerly cheering on the floats, performers, and marching bands. Last year, the legendary Cher was the headline act.