How to Attend the Macy's Ballooning Ceremony and Why Many Think It's Better Than the Parade

What is Thanksgiving in New York without the annual Macy's parade! .. And the parade itself is impossible without huge balloons. If you want to see how these aerial giants are made, come to the American Museum of Natural History tomorrow, November 23rd, to see Macy's Ballooning Ceremony in honor of Thanksgiving.

Many New Yorkers find the balloon-inflating ceremony even more interesting than the parade itself. And if you have children, then it is definitely a must-see.

Giant balloons will be inflated near the Museum of Natural History (200 Central Park West) November 23 from 12:00 to 18:00. Visitors can enter from 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue and proceed to Central Park West, via 77th Street towards 81st Street. In this way, you will go around most of the museum building and see all the balloons inflated there.

Keep in mind that the Macy's balloon ceremony is attended by a huge number of people. You are waiting for security checks and crowds of people who want to see the balls closer. So it's better to come early.

On the subject: Top 25 Fun Facts About Macy's Thanksgiving Parade

When inflated, the balloons quickly take shape and are held to the ground by giant nets, so you can see them up close.

Oh yes, we almost forgot about the most pleasant thing, the entrance to the ceremony free.

Useful tips for those who want to attend the Macy's Parade Ballooning Ceremony

Don't try to meet up with friends on the spot. If you want to attend an event together, then go there together or meet a few blocks from the museum. Otherwise, the chances that you will find each other in the crowd tend to zero.

Take food and water with you. You won't be able to walk around the museum and see the balls in less than 45 minutes. So take care of water and snacks in advance (especially if you are going to an event with a child).