The giant balloons in modern parades, especially the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, replaced the use of live animals that had been featured in earlier parades. These animals, often sourced from places like the Central Park Zoo, were part of the entertainment before balloons made their debut in 1927.

Early Parade Entertainment

• Live animals, including various zoo exhibits, were a defining feature of the parade's spectacle from its inception in 1924 until the switch in 1927.

• Macy’s employees and bands also participated, but the presence of live animals made the parade especially unique prior to the introduction of balloons.

Shift to Giant Balloons

• Balloons offered a safer and more manageable alternative, allowing the parade to continue its tradition of spectacle in a way that was easier for organizers and participants to control.

• The first giant balloon was Felix the Cat, which set the standard for future balloon characters and parade innovations.

Summary Table

Feature Replaced| Replacement Feature| Year of Change| Why Change?
---|---|---|---
Live animals| Giant balloons| 1927| Safety, spectacle

The introduction of giant balloons marked a major evolution in parade entertainment and remains the parade's most iconic tradition.