Inevitably, mistakes happen, Mother Nature intervenes, and balloons go off the prescribed path through New York.

It takes 18 months, over 5,000 volunteers, 22 floats, 17 giant balloons, 700+ clowns, and thousands of hours to bring Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade magic to 2.5 miles of fans.

Some of the world's most popular animated characters have taken to the skies as Macy's prepares for their annual Thanksgiving Day parade. (AP Video: Ted Shaffrey)

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a century-old tradition, takes place on Thursday, November 28 at 8:30 a.m. and promises to be the biggest yet.

The 98th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to captivate audiences with six new featured character balloons making their debut.

Macy’s has announced the 2024 lineup for its annual Thanksgiving Day parade with performers and balloons honoring every generation

The 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will feature a cavalcade of stars. Performers and celebrities who will be attending the annual parade were announced Nov. 1 on TODAY. Actor Alison Brie will cut the ribbon to kick off the parade, which will take place Thursday, November 28 at 8:30 a.m. ET, marking the 98th year of the event.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is being described as a “non-binary and transgender extravaganza” due to its inclusion of two gender non-conforming performers as part of the lineup. More than 21,000 people have signed a petition started by One Million Moms (OMM),