Watch 16 giant balloons inflate the night before the parade.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation for 2026 takes place on the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, November 25, 2026, from 12 PM to 6 PM at the American Museum of Natural History area on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. This free event lets visitors watch the iconic giant helium balloons being filled and prepared for the big parade the next day. It offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the balloon inflation process, complete with crowds of excited spectators, event staff guidance, and security by NYPD. Early arrival is recommended for easier viewing and to see the balloons partially inflated, which is especially exciting for kids. Note that the event can get very crowded, strollers and refreshments are not advised, and dressing warmly is essential due to the outdoor setting in late November. This unique pre-parade celebration is a festive and visual highlight leading up to the 2026 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade spectacle in NYC.

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It’s a FREE EVENT.

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