The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by watching a Christmas parade on TV? From the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, there are numerous Christmas parades that air on television throughout the holiday season. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to Christmas parades on TV, including their air dates, times, and channels.
History of Christmas Parades on TV
The tradition of broadcasting Christmas parades on TV dates back to the 1950s, when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade first aired on NBC. The parade, which features giant balloons, floats, and live performances, has become a staple of American holiday television. Over the years, other Christmas parades have followed suit, including the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, which debuted in 1983.
Types of Christmas Parades on TV
There are several types of Christmas parades that air on TV, each with its own unique theme and style. Some of the most popular types of Christmas parades on TV include:
- Traditional Parades: These parades feature traditional holiday elements, such as marching bands, floats, and giant balloons. Examples include the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
- Theme Park Parades: These parades are filmed at theme parks, such as Disney World and Universal Studios, and feature characters and attractions from the parks. Examples include the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade and the Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas Parade.
- Community Parades: These parades are filmed in local communities and feature local marching bands, floats, and performers. Examples include the Chicago Christmas Parade and the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Christmas Parades on TV Schedule
Here is a list of some of the most popular Christmas parades on TV, including their air dates, times, and channels:
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Airs on NBC on Thanksgiving Day, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
- Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade: Airs on ABC on Christmas Day, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
- Tournament of Roses Parade: Airs on NBC on New Year’s Day, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST
- Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas Parade: Airs on NBC on select dates in December, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EST
How to Watch Christmas Parades on TV
There are several ways to watch Christmas parades on TV, including:
- Traditional TV: Tune into the parade’s broadcast channel at the scheduled air time.
- Streaming Services: Many Christmas parades are available to stream on services such as Hulu, Amazon Prime, and YouTube TV.
- On Demand: Some Christmas parades are available to watch on demand through the parade’s website or through a cable provider’s on demand service.
Popular Christmas Parade Performers
Christmas parades on TV often feature a variety of performers, including musicians, dancers, and celebrities. Some popular Christmas parade performers include:
- Maroon 5: The band has performed at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade.
- Katy Perry: The singer has performed at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
- Justin Bieber: The singer has performed at the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade and the Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas Parade.
Christmas Parade Floats and Balloons
One of the most iconic elements of Christmas parades on TV is the floats and balloons. These elaborate displays are designed and built by teams of artists and engineers, and feature a variety of themes and characters. Some popular Christmas parade floats and balloons include:
- Ronald McDonald: The iconic McDonald’s mascot has been featured on a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
- Mickey Mouse: The beloved Disney character has been featured on a float in the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade.
- SpongeBob SquarePants: The popular cartoon character has been featured on a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Behind the Scenes of Christmas Parades on TV
Producing a Christmas parade on TV is a complex and time-consuming process. Here are some behind-the-scenes facts about Christmas parades on TV:
- Planning Begins in January: The planning process for Christmas parades on TV begins in January, with teams of producers, designers, and engineers working together to create the parade’s theme, floats, and performances.
- Floats Take Months to Build: The floats featured in Christmas parades on TV take months to build, with teams of artists and engineers working together to design and construct the elaborate displays.
- Performers Rehearse for Weeks: The performers featured in Christmas parades on TV rehearse for weeks before the parade, perfecting their routines and ensuring a smooth performance.
Christmas Parade Trivia
Here are some fun facts and trivia about Christmas parades on TV:
- The First Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Was Held in 1924: The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held in 1924, and featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo.
- The Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade Is Filmed in Advance: The Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade is filmed in advance, with the parade being taped in November and December.
- The Tournament of Roses Parade Is the Oldest Bowl Game Parade: The Tournament of Roses Parade is the oldest bowl game parade, dating back to 1890.
Conclusion
Christmas parades on TV are a beloved holiday tradition, featuring iconic floats, balloons, and performances. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, there are numerous Christmas parades that air on television throughout the holiday season. Whether you’re watching on traditional TV, streaming services, or on demand, Christmas parades on TV are a great way to get into the festive spirit.
What is the history of Christmas parades on TV?
Christmas parades on TV have a long history dating back to the 1950s. The first televised Christmas parade was the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which was broadcast on NBC in 1952. The parade was a huge success and paved the way for other Christmas parades to be broadcast on TV. Over the years, Christmas parades have become a staple of holiday programming, with many networks broadcasting their own parades.
Today, Christmas parades on TV are more popular than ever, with many networks offering their own unique take on the traditional parade. From the classic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to more modern parades like the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a fun and festive way to get into the holiday spirit, Christmas parades on TV are a great way to celebrate the season.
What are some popular Christmas parades on TV?
There are many popular Christmas parades on TV, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Some of the most popular parades include the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, and the Tournament of Roses Parade. These parades feature a mix of festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. They’re a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some quality time with family and friends.
In addition to these classic parades, there are also many other Christmas parades on TV that are worth checking out. For example, the ABC network broadcasts the “Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade” which features performances by popular Disney characters and celebrities. The NBC network broadcasts the “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade” which features giant balloons, floats, and live performances. There are also many other parades broadcast on other networks, so be sure to check your local listings for more information.
When are Christmas parades on TV typically broadcast?
Christmas parades on TV are typically broadcast during the holiday season, which usually starts in late November and runs through December. The exact broadcast dates and times vary depending on the network and the specific parade. Some parades, like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, are broadcast on Thanksgiving Day, while others, like the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, are broadcast on Christmas Day.
In general, it’s a good idea to check your local TV listings for the most up-to-date information on when Christmas parades will be broadcast in your area. You can also check the websites of your favorite networks for more information on their holiday programming schedules. Many networks also offer streaming options, so you can watch your favorite parades online if you miss the live broadcast.
How can I watch Christmas parades on TV if I don’t have cable?
If you don’t have cable, there are still many ways to watch Christmas parades on TV. Many networks offer streaming options, so you can watch your favorite parades online. For example, you can watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on the NBC website or on the NBC app. You can also watch the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade on the ABC website or on the ABC app.
In addition to streaming options, you can also watch Christmas parades on TV using a digital antenna. Many networks broadcast their parades over the air, so you can pick up the signal using a digital antenna. This is a great option if you don’t have cable or satellite TV. You can also purchase a streaming device, such as a Roku or Amazon Fire TV, which will give you access to a wide range of streaming channels, including many that broadcast Christmas parades.
Can I attend a Christmas parade in person?
Yes, many Christmas parades are open to the public and can be attended in person. In fact, attending a Christmas parade in person can be a fun and festive way to get into the holiday spirit. If you’re interested in attending a parade, be sure to check the website of the parade you’re interested in for more information on tickets, seating, and other details.
Some popular Christmas parades that are open to the public include the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City and the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. These parades are huge events that attract millions of spectators each year. If you’re planning to attend a parade in person, be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, and dress warmly, as it can get cold while waiting for the parade to start.
How can I get involved in a Christmas parade?
If you’re interested in getting involved in a Christmas parade, there are many ways to do so. One way is to volunteer to help with the parade. Many parades rely on volunteers to help with everything from setting up floats to handing out candy to spectators. You can also participate in a parade by marching in it. Many parades feature marching bands, dance troupes, and other performance groups, and you can often join in by contacting the parade organizers.
Another way to get involved in a Christmas parade is to build a float or create a performance routine. Many parades feature floats and performances created by local community groups, schools, and businesses. If you have a creative idea for a float or performance, you can often submit it to the parade organizers for consideration. This is a great way to get involved in the parade and show off your creativity.
Are Christmas parades on TV suitable for all ages?
Yes, Christmas parades on TV are generally suitable for all ages. They are a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season, and they often feature a mix of music, dance, and other performances that are enjoyable for both children and adults. Many parades also feature popular children’s characters, such as Santa Claus, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Frosty the Snowman, which can be a delight for young children.
In addition to being fun and entertaining, Christmas parades on TV can also be a great way to introduce children to the magic of the holiday season. Many parades feature traditional holiday music, decorations, and other festive elements that can help to create a sense of wonder and excitement in children. So, whether you’re watching with your family or enjoying the parade on your own, Christmas parades on TV are a great way to get into the holiday spirit.