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Parade Sparks Outrage: Viewers Slam Thanksgiving Kick-off
27 Nov
Summary
- Cynthia Erivo's performance opened the 99th annual parade.
- Many viewers criticized the parade's opening performance and content.
- New balloons like Buzz Lightyear and Super Mario featured this year.

The 99th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade commenced this year with an opening performance by Cynthia Erivo. While Erivo delivered a powerful rendition of Nina Simone's 'Feeling Good,' her performance and the subsequent parade content sparked considerable backlash online. Numerous viewers took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, with some labeling the event as 'woke BS' and criticizing its perceived progressive agenda. Several individuals stated they turned off the broadcast due to their objections to the parade's direction.
Despite the vocal criticism from a segment of the audience, the annual tradition pressed on, featuring a lineup of other entertainers, including Lainey Wilson and the stars of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters.' The parade showcased 34 balloons and 28 floats, with exciting new additions such as Buzz Lightyear from 'Toy Story' and Nintendo's Super Mario. These new features highlighted the parade's ongoing evolution and commitment to engaging viewers with popular culture.
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, which first took place in 1924, was originally conceived to promote Macy's new toy department. The inaugural event saw 250,000 attendees and featured costumed employees, live bands, and animals from the Central Park Zoo, establishing it as a cherished annual tradition that continues to this day.




