The parade looked different 100 years ago. Back then, it featured live animals from a local zoo. In 1927, Felix the Cat, a cartoon character at the time, became the first balloon to fly in the parade. Each year, new balloons are added while others are retired. This year, more than a dozen character balloons will soar above the 2.5-mile parade route.
Executive producer Will Coss oversees the creation, planning, and design of the parade. He’s proud to be part of history.
“I remember watching the parade with my family as a child,” Coss says. “It’s amazing to know that we have continued this beloved tradition for families across America.”