There are certain traditions that, no matter how much time passes, always seem to bring back a little childhood magic.
For countless families, Thanksgiving morning means gathering around the television, enjoying a cozy morning at home and watching as some of their favorite characters make their way through the streets of New York City.
And of course, there’s always that excitement of seeing a familiar face floating high above the crowds.
From beloved Disney characters to colorful creations inspired by some of entertainment’s biggest franchises, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become a treasured part of the season for generations of families.
Now, as the iconic celebration prepares to mark its 100th parade, Disney and Macy’s are bringing a little of that magic beyond the streets of New York and into homes across the country.
The two companies have announced an expanded Disney and Macy’s Holiday Collection, celebrating Disney’s decades-long connection to the Thanksgiving tradition through a new assortment of clothing, accessories, home décor, collectibles and gifts.
And there’s plenty of nostalgia behind this one.
The collection draws inspiration from the Disney, Pixar and Marvel balloons that have delighted parade spectators over the years, celebrating not only the characters themselves but also the memories families have created while watching them.
Because for many of us, the parade isn’t simply something we turn on every Thanksgiving morning. It’s part of the experience of the day itself.
There’s the excitement of waiting for a favorite balloon to appear, the familiar music and performances, and the joy of sharing a tradition that parents and grandparents may have enjoyed when they were children.
And now, some of that excitement is finding its way into a collection designed for Disney fans of all ages.
The expanded assortment builds upon the debut of the new Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey giant character balloon and accompanying merchandise capsule announced in August.
Inspired by Mickey Mouse’s unforgettable appearance in Disney’s “Fantasia,” the balloon brings one of the character’s most recognizable looks to the parade, complete with the magical charm that has made Sorcerer Mickey a favorite among Disney fans.
The larger merchandise assortment will feature three distinct themed collections, with products celebrating the history, characters and excitement associated with Parade Day.
Fans won’t have to wait until Thanksgiving to begin exploring the collection, either.
The Disney and Macy’s Holiday Collection launched online at Macy’s on October 7, with products scheduled to arrive in Macy’s stores nationwide beginning October 13.
For families who enjoy incorporating their favorite characters into seasonal traditions, the assortment offers another way to celebrate the parade beyond watching it on television.
And for collectors, there’s something particularly appealing about merchandise connected to such a significant anniversary.
After all, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become much more than an annual event. It’s a celebration of entertainment, imagination and the childhood memories that continue to connect one generation to the next.
Disney’s presence throughout that history has helped bring familiar characters into a tradition that families eagerly anticipate year after year.
And as the parade prepares for its 100th celebration, it’s rather fitting that some of those memories are being celebrated in a new way.
Because while the balloons may only float above New York City for one morning each year, the magic of seeing our favorite characters take to the skies can stay with us for a lifetime.
And this year, a little piece of that magic can come home, too.

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