The Shocking History Behind The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade That You Probably Didn’t Know
Though you’ve come to know it as a beloved annual tradition, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has quite the quirky backstory. From the involvement of live zoo animals to helium shortages, we’re tracing back to its origin story and unbelievable history throughout the years that’s now made it one of the most watched events on television in the United States.
When was the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took over Herald Square in 1924. And though this first parade took place on Thanksgiving morning—as it has ever since—it was branded as a Christmas parade instead to promote holiday shopping at,what was, at the time, the world’s largest department store.
As the parade grew in popularity, an older Thanksgiving tradition known as ‘Ragamuffin Day’ fell by the wayside. This controversial and dated tradition involved children dressing as beggars and going door-to-door on Thanksgiving morning, asking neighbors for money or treats.
What was missing from the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Now recognized for its iconic balloons, the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade didn’t have them, but rather, live animals from the Central Park Zoo! Historical parade advertisements even went so far to describe it as an “animal circus.”
Balloons weren’t introduced until 1927, when Macy’s replaced the live zoo animals with helium balloons, as children found some of the animals frightening. Now, Macy’s is the second largest helium consumer in the country.
/ Getty Images for Macy’s
What was the first balloon introduced in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
The first balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade brought old-time cartoon, Felix the Cat, to life.
However, Snoopy has since snagged the title as the most appeared character throughout the years, having been featured in more than 40 parades.
Has the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade ever been cancelled after its inception?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was suspended between 1942 and 1944, the only three years it was ever cancelled since its inception. Even in 2020, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade occurred, just on a smaller scale.
The 1942-1944 cancellations were due to a helium and rubber shortage during World War II. Rubber from deflated Macy’s balloons were even donated to the military during this time.
So though the parade originated in 1924, the 2024 parade is not considered its 100th anniversary.
Take a further look into the history of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade through vintage photos across the years
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