The original parade, known as Macy's Christmas Parade was started by Macy's employees and featured animals from Central Park Zoo. In 1927 the parade included helium-filled balloons for the first time.  Mickey Mouse, now an annual favorite first joined the parade in 1934.  First televised in 1946 and drew a record breaking 2 million live spectators.  Ref: official website.

The original parade, known as Macy's Christmas Parade was started by Macy's employees and featured animals from Central Park Zoo. In 1927 the parade included helium-filled balloons for the first time.  Mickey Mouse, now an annual favorite first joined the parade in 1934.  First televised in 1946 and drew a record breaking 2 million live spectators.  Ref: official website.