Thanksgiving Eve Balloon Inflating

Getting ready for lift-off: See the balloons being inflated the day before the parade!

Date: Wednesday Nov 26th, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM (line will open at 12 noon)
Location: Enter at West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue

The Macy's Balloon Inflation Celebration has been held on Thanksgiving Eve since 1994. For some people, meeting up and watching the balloons being inflated for the Thanksgiving Day Parade is more of an annual event than the parade itself!

During this event, inflation teams and Parade officials prep the giant balloons, novelty balloons, and balloonicles for the following day's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

While historically the balloons were inflated late at night, this event now takes place mostly during the daylight hours.

Entry & Exit Locations

Beginning at 7 AM Wednesday, November 26th, 81st Street and 77th Street from Central Park West to Columbus Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic.

Spectators are advised to enter the inflation viewing area secure checkpoint from Columbus Avenue at West 72nd Street. The balloon viewing path winds around the American Museum of Natural History.

Guests may exit west along any block from West 82nd to West 86th Streets.

Prohibited Items

Bags or backpacks larger than 12x6x12, lawn chairs, large coolers, alcoholic beverages, chairs, weapons, drones, pets, and umbrellas are expressly prohibited, and participants will be screened prior to entering the viewing route.

Getting There

Public transit is strongly recommended due to heavy traffic and street closures.

The closest subway station to the entrance point is the B and C stop at 72nd Street and Central Park West.

Tips

Strollers, while not prohibited, are difficult to push through the galleries. Try baby carriers or wait until children are older and can handle long periods of standing.

It is recommended to bring snacks or eat beforehand, as the loop takes at least 45 minutes to complete.