The 98th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Our parents took us to see it when we were kids, just as their parents did before them. Macy's 98th Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off next Thursday at 8:30 AM from West 77th St. and Central Park West. If you're planning on viewing it in person (and you should do it at least once), the parade heads down Central Park West, turns left onto West 59th St., and makes a right at 6th Ave., where it continues to Herald Square.

If you can't attend in person, the parade will be broadcast on NBC TV and streamed on Peacock Thanksgiving Day beginning at 8:30 AM EST. That way you can see the performances. For our Broadway fans, the shows appearing include Death Becomes Her, The Outsiders, and Hell's Kitchen. In addition, Idina Menzel will be previewing a song from her upcoming show, Redwood.

For a different experience, head up to CPW around the Museum of Natural History the day before, Weds. Nov. 27, and watch as the famous balloons are inflated. We used to do it when we lived a few blocks away back in the 1980's. It was a much more casual and neighborhood-y event back then, but it's still a great deal of fun. The entrance is at W. 72nd St. and Columbus Ave. and it's open between 1-6 PM.

For more parade details, click here.