Community Perspectives on the Thanksgiving Day Parade

Almost every year, I go to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with my parents. I love seeing all of the balloons and the floats, the old ones and the new ones. A major part of the parade are these giant balloons that take up most of the street in the sky. Dr. M is one of the teachers at Trevor who is a balloon handler. Curious about balloon handling and how it works, I spoke to Dr. M to learn more.

When did you start doing the parade?

I started in Fall 2021 when the parade came back from the pandemic. When they were going to do it again they were looking for people to regroup the crew because many people moved away so Susan Mezo (who works at Trevor) and her father are pilots in the crew and were in charge of recruiting people. Each crew can be up to 90 people.

What is your favorite balloon (in general or to handle)?

Spongebob Squarepants.

What is your favorite part about the parade in general?

When I turn into Central Park West and I see the families gathered on the side, the kids' faces, it’s almost magical.

Were there any new balloons or floats that you are really excited for?

I’m excited for the Minnie Mouse balloon. I’m also excited for Gabby’s Dollhouse.

If you could pick any float to be on with any celebrity (even if they aren’t doing the parade), what would it be?

It would be the Dora the Explorer float with Lin Manuel Miranda.

If you could pick any balloon to handle what would it be?

The Grogu balloon, because you get to dress as a stormtrooper.

If you have one, what is your least favorite part about the parade?

I have to wake up at 4:30 in the morning to prepare.

What have you done in the parade in the past?

I’ve handled the Spongebob balloon, the Pillsbury Dough Boy, Greg from Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and this year, Gabby’s Dollhouse.