While the Macy's parade isn't the only Thanksgiving Day parade, it is considered one of the world’s largest, and among the oldest—it began in 1924. The first year, three balloons, four bands, and zoo animals from the Central Park Zoo walked from 145th Street and Convent Avenue to Macy’s on 34th Street and Broadway.

Though organizers hoped the real animals, like tigers, camels, elephants, and donkeys would entertain the younger audience, they actually frightened the children. They experimented with different things to replace this spectacle and created the first giant balloon depicting Felix the Cat, which was propped up above ground by long, thin sticks

In 1927, balloons started to make a larger appearance with the help of helium, allowing them to soar down the crowds of New York City.

At the end of the parade, these giant balloons were released into the air. Macy’s began offering rewards of money to anyone with a returned balloon. This experiment did not last long, and for good reason! The tradition came to an end when a loose balloon became entangled in the propeller of a small plane almost causing an accident. Soon after, balloons were deflated, crated and stored for their next use—a practice that continues through today.

What started off with three balloons has now grown into dozens. It is safe to say that the balloons have a way of tracking the country’s progress and intrests as each era inspires innovation. Over the year’s balloons have included familiar cartoon characters such as Mrs.Katzenjammer, (the first female balloon) Olive Oyl, Snoopy, and more.

Growing in popularity over the years, few things have caused the parade to be canceled. Only during the period World War (1942 to 1944) was the celebration intentionally halted, as well as due to poor weather conditions in 1971.

What began as a small affair has now become one of the world's largest parades and beloved tradition!