Here in Tour America, we’re all about bringing families together on exciting and unforgettable holidays and what perfect way to bring the whole family together if not on Thanksgiving day! Thanksgiving day parades are a huge tradition in America and, every year, massive crowds come together to watch the festive floats, larger-than-life balloons and dance groups in cities big and small across the U.S. So, to celebrate the festive season that’s just around the corner, we’ve selected our all-time favourite Thanksgiving Day parades in America!
This year marks the 90th anniversary for one of the most impressive parades in the U.S. – New York’s own Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. The parade is perfect for families, especially the little ones and the festivities feature head-turning character balloons, massive floats ornamented with festive decorations and marching bands. Even celebrities help bring the Thanksgiving celebrations onto the streets of New York with more than 3.5 million spectators watching the procession.
BONUS FUN FACT:
If you laid every parade balloon since 1927 end to end they would stretch from Battery Park City to the Cloisters. That’s 12 miles of balloons!
Celebrated since 1924, the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade prides itself as the oldest Thanksgiving parade in America. The annual parade is famous for its huge helium-filled balloons, floats in all shapes and sizes and a special visit from Santa who sees Philadelphia into the festive holiday season. The 1.4 mile long procession starts at the 20th Street and JFK Boulevard, and finishes at the base of the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is the best spot to watch the parade.
While Philadelphia boasts the title for the oldest Thanksgiving Day parade, Plymouth prizes itself as the heart of the very first Thanksgiving meal, which was held by the Pilgrims of the Plymouth colony in 1621. The Plymouth Thanksgiving parade has a strong historical theme and is one of the only historically accurate chronological parades in the U.S. Perfect for history buffs or anyone interested in American heritage, the parade brings history back to life with soldiers, patriots and musicians performing re-enactments from the 17th to 21st century. Different from most of the other Thanksgiving day parades which are held on the last Thursday in November, America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade is held the weekend before.
Another one of our favourites, the Thanksgiving parade in Chicago each year invites hundreds of thousands of people to line up the State Street between Congress Parkway and Randolph Street to see a grand spectacle of marching bands, decorated floats and massive helium balloons. Originally named the Christmas Caravan in 1930s, the parade has grown into a remarkable procession with special guests representing every part of America, as well as many cultures from around the world.
Louisiana, home to the ingenius “turducken” invention (a turkey stuffed with a duck stuffed with a chicken), is the perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving. Famous for its rich culture and spectacular carnivals, you can trust New Orleans to throw a Thanksgiving Parade you won’t forget! This year marks the 38th year for the highly underrated Thanksgiving Day parade, which begins at the Mercedes Benz-Superdome and ends at the French Market, where you can continue the celebrations by indulging in the New Orleans twist on the Thanksgiving Day dish!
No matter where and with whom you choose to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, there is a myriad of activities held all around the U.S. that are worth experiencing! For more information on booking your holiday around Thanksgiving next year, call our American travel experts on 01-8173562 or visit our New York destination page.
If you’re about to travel with your child/infant and their age changes during the holiday, you may be wondering whether they need a different plane ticket on the way home. For example, your 11-year old may turn 12 before you depart, which is the usual age for an adult plane ticket. Do you need to… Continue reading A Guide to Airline Age Policies
Universal Studios has made three exciting announcements that will excite fans. From the spooky haunted house return of “Stranger Things” at Halloween Horror Nights to the upcoming construction of a Fast & Furious-themed roller coaster and the newly revealed Villain-Con Minion Blast from Illumination, there’s plenty of excitement in store for visitors. “Stranger Things” House… Continue reading Stranger Things, Fast & Furious and Minions: Exciting Universal Studios Announcements
All set for one of the world’s greatest attractions in the world. SeaWorld Orlando is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated concert line-up for the Summer Spectacular Concert Series. Starting from the 8th of July and running through the 6th of August This series offers incredible performances by some of music’s biggest stars- all included… Continue reading Dive into the Excitement of SeaWorld’s Summer Spectacular
Our mission statement is very clear, 'to have a raving fan club!', and our team are willing and able to exceed all of your holiday expectations.
Alana was absolutely amazing and nothing was a bother to her. Sent me several different quotes and was so friendly when she rang to take deposit. I feel so confident traveling with Tour America. Thank you so much for all your help. I would highly recommend this company for anyone travelling to America.
Judy
We’re with Tour America for over 10 years – we come back for the service, the personal touch from Lorna McGrath and the peace of mind of knowing we are cared for and supported while on holiday. Wonderful company, amazing people.
Jean
We had a holiday of a lifetime and everything was amazing. From checking in to checking out it was a breeze. Thanks to Tina Murphy for making it so fantastic. Tour America you will definitely be our number one for more holidays. It’s been amazing. We will be recommending you to any of our families and friends who want the best. Thanks again for everything.
Karen