How to watch and stream the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

NEW YORK (AP) — The holiday season really kicks off when the massive helium balloons start floating through New York. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade — two years away from its 100th birthday — this year will feature 17 giant character balloons, 22 floats, 15 novelty and heritage inflatables, 11 marching bands, 700 clowns, 10 performance groups and more stars than can fit around a table.

The parade begins rain or shine on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and ends at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store on 34th Street, which serves as a stage and backdrop for performances.

Here’s key things to know about the parade and how to watch it.