Thanksgiving Parade: Weather-Proof Tradition

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is only a few days away, but this year’s event may face some tough weather.

We are monitoring a low-pressure system expected to bring rain, snow and gusty winds to the Northeast. While these conditions could make things challenging, history shows that even the harshest weather hasn’t stopped this holiday tradition.

Since its inaugural run in 1924, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been an unbroken tradition, marching through rain, snow, and bitter cold. Remarkably, it has never been canceled due to weather conditions, demonstrating the steadfast commitment of its organizers and participants to delight millions of spectators year after year.

In 2006, the parade faced its wettest conditions on record as heavy rain poured down on New York City. That day, 1.72 inches of rain fell during the event, drenching performers and attendees alike. Despite the miserable weather, the parade continued as scheduled, with spectators armed with umbrellas and ponchos lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the iconic balloons and floats.

Wind also posed a major challenge in 1997, when gusts reached speeds of up to 43 mph. The blustery conditions caused the infamous Cat in the Hat balloon accident, which struck a lamppost, injuring a spectator. In response, organizers decided to lower many of the balloons, but the parade itself pushed forward, a testament to the resilience of the event.

The only cancellations in the parade’s history occurred during World War II (1942–1944) to support the war effort. Even in 2020, amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the parade was adapted into a televised event rather than being called off entirely.

While the weather this year could pose hurdles, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has proven time and again that no storm, wind, or cold can dampen its holiday spirit. Starting Monday, we will have more details on the Weather & Radar Thanksgiving live coverage.