Where to Watch the Macy's Parade 2009

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was started in 1924 by Louis Bamberger in Newark, New Jersey. It originated at Bamberger's department store which would eventually become Macy's. The parade consists of large balloon animals, people in costumes, holiday inspired floats and, of course, Santa Claus. Every year millions show up live to see the parade and it is viewed on television by over 40 million people.

The parade route has been changed for 2009. The new route will start at 77th Street and Central Park West and continue along Central Park to Columbus Circle. It will then travel east along Central Park South and make a right at 7th Avenue and go to Times Square. From there the parade will go east on 42nd Street and then right on 6th Avenue. Heading south on 6th Avenue it will then turn right onto 34th Street and end at 7th Avenue. The city of New York is hoping this new route will give much needed space for more spectators.

If you want to be able to view the parade in person it is best to arrive very early. Some people are starting to show up by 6:30 a.m.

The best spots for viewing the parade are on the west side of 70th Street to Columbus Circle and the east side of 70th Street to 65th Street. Another good spot to watch from is on Broadway from 58th Street to 38th Street or on the south side of 34th Street from Broadway to 7th Avenue.

The parade will last anywhere from 1 1/2 hours to 3 hours so you should come prepared. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks and a thermos full of coffee or hot cocoa. Make sure you have activities to keep the little ones busy while waiting for the parade to begin. Maybe some bubbles or other outdoor toys. You will also want to be sure to bring the camera or video recorder because this is definitely an experience you will want to remember.

If you would like to see the balloons being aired up the day before the parade you can do this near The American Museum of Natural History between the hours of 3 and 10 p.m.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macy's_Thanksgiving_Day_Parade
http://gonyc.about.com/cs/thanksgiving/a/tdayparade.htm