Thanksgiving Day parades are festive events held in many cities across the United States to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. These parades typically feature large floats, marching bands, and various performers, creating a lively atmosphere. The most famous parade is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, which has been a tradition since 1924. During the parades, giant balloon characters of popular cartoon and movie figures are a major highlight. Families often gather to watch the parades in person or on television, making it a cherished part of the Thanksgiving celebration. The events usually take place in the morning, leading up to the Thanksgiving meal.