Tens of thousands celebrate Thanksgiving parade during elections in New York Netherlands: neck-and-neck race expected

Tens of thousands of spectators cheered on giant balloon figures, show dancers dressed for Christmas and Santa Claus and his wife during New York’s Thanksgiving parade.

During the traditional parade on Thursday, helium balloons of characters such as Snoopy and the Pokémon Pikachu floated above the people, and Sesame Street characters and American sports stars who want to compete in the Paris Olympics next year waved from floats.

In addition to several Broadway stars, the a cappella group Pentatonix sang a Christmas pop song before pop icon Cher (77) presented her new single ‘DJ Play a Christmas Song’ shortly before the end of the parade.

US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill were also connected by phone to the NBC television station. “Today is about coming together and thanking the country that is our home,” Biden said. “We also thank all the firefighters, police officers and our military.” Jill Biden added: “Today it’s important to do something kind. Call someone and tell them have a great Thanksgiving.”

The parade heads south from Central Park in downtown Manhattan; In addition to the floats and balloons, thousands of people participate in brass bands, dance formations and other foot groups. Many companies also take the opportunity to advertise their products in the parade, which is broadcast live on NBC – the parade is organized by department store chain Macy’s. It took place for the 97th time.

(hah/sda/dpa)