Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2024: Who makes the balloons and floats? How much do they cost?
Iconic floats and giant balloons will take over the streets of NYC on November 28 with the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. But they don’t come cheap.
One of America’s most iconic holiday traditions is back: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Since its debut in 1924, this event has become a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations, with only one interruption during World War II. Today, it remains a cherished part of the holiday, serving as the unofficial kickoff to the festive season.
The parade’s biggest stars? The massive helium-filled balloons soaring above Manhattan’s streets. Featuring characters from pop culture—ranging from beloved cartoons to superheroes—these towering creations capture the imagination of millions. Each balloon is carefully guided by a team of handlers, adding a touch of magic to the spectacle.
Adding to the excitement are the elaborately designed floats, showcasing festive themes and spreading holiday cheer. The grand finale, featuring Santa Claus in his iconic sleigh, marks the official start of the Christmas season in the United States.
How are floats and giant balloons made?
Behind the scenes, crafting these eye-catching floats and balloons is no small feat. The Macy’s Parade Studio designs and builds these incredible creations, requiring months of planning and meticulous craftsmanship. According to Tomorrow’s World Today, the balloons are painted by hand, not printed, and can reach heights equivalent to five or six-story buildings. Each balloon requires between 80 and 100 handlers to maneuver it along the parade route.
The high costs behind the magic
How much does it cost to bring these creations to life? Producing and maintaining the floats and balloons involves hefty expenses.
For balloons, inflation alone is a major investment. According to GOBankingRates, filling one of these massive characters with 300,000 to 700,000 cubic feet of helium can cost upwards of $500,000 per balloon.
You may also be interested in: List of streets closed for the Macy’s Parade 2024
Companies that sponsor new balloons must pay an initial construction and parade fee of $190,000, in addition to the cost of helium. For returning sponsors, the fee drops to $90,000, as no new balloon needs to be built.
The floats come with their own significant price tags, ranging from $30,000 to $100,000 each. The design and assembly process for a single float can take anywhere from four to nine months.
Why the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade captures the holiday spirit
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than a televised event; it’s a beloved cultural phenomenon that unites millions of Americans each year. Whether you’re mesmerized by the creativity of the floats, awed by the scale of the balloons, or eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival, this parade embodies the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
Original article written by Daniela Barrera, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.