A Wicked-ly good performance, a hilarious Al Roker fan interaction, a surprise Jessica Chastain appearance and so much more makes this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade one to remember.
Savannah Guthrie and Today show alum Hoda Kotb reunited to host the 99th annual Thanksgiving Day Parade Nov. 27 alongside Al, and Cynthia Erivo kicked off the holiday spectacular to sing Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good.”
After her rendition, Cynthia officially marked the beginning of the parade by cutting the ribbon, allowing every balloon imaginable from Pikachu to Tom the Turkey float through the streets of Manhattan.
Later, Al showcased the Radio City Rockettes and gave a young fan a very special present—tickets to see the show in New York.
As the Today weather presenter told the young girl, “Would you be excited to see the Rockettes?”
In response, the fan answered, “Yeah!”
But when Al presented the girl with her prize, she hilariously quipped, “I did that yesterday!”
Meanwhile, Cynthia wasn’t the only singer to deliver a beautiful performance. Conan Gray appeared to sing his hit “Vodka Cranberry,” while Jewel sang a snippet of her beloved “You Were Meant For Me.” Ciara also shut down Herald Square to perform “Low” in an all-pink ensemble.
Elsewhere during the event, Lil Jon gave a holiday-inspired spin on his and DJ Snake’s “Turn Down For What.” However, instead of the French record producer spinning on the track, the rapper had help from Toys R Us giraffe, DJ Giraffe, as he performed on the toy store’s float.
Like every year, the Macy’s parade also featured several performances from Broadway productions, including from Buena Vista Social Club and Just In Time. During the latter performance, Jonathan Groff—who was joined in the performance by costars Sarah Hyland and Sadie Dickerson—welcomed Saturday Night Live’s Bowen Yang to make a quick cameo, spinning the comedian around and planting a kiss on his hand.
Other celebrities who took in all the action? Oscar winner Jessica was shown jamming out to the parade’s performances, as well as Bowen’s Las Culturistas podcast cohost Matt Rogers. Eric André also turned the parade into a family affair, posing with several family members in the parade’s VIP hospitality suite, as well as in another photo with fellow comedian Hasan Minhaj.
Naturally, the parade couldn’t conclude without an appearance from Santa Claus himself to officially declare, in the words of Mariah Carey, “It’s time.”
To see every celebrity who stepped out for the action in New York, keep reading…
Cynthia Erivo
She's feeling Wicked: For Good. The actress fuels up before a rendition of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good."
Michelle Buteau
The comedian sports a matching set perfect for the holiday occasion.
Darlene Love
A Christmas queen makes her apperance. The "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" singer spots a fan in the crowd.
Teyana Taylor
One celebration after another. The All's Fair star steps out in a unique look.
Russell Wilson & Family
A touchdown dad moment. The Patriots quarterback supports wife Ciara alongside their kids for her big performance.
Lil Jon
Turn down for this performance. The rapper appears to sing one of his most famous tracks on the Toys R Us float.
Jewel
You were meant for this moment. The singer-songwriter appears to perform her famous ballad.
Jessica Chastain
The Oscar winner shows up to take in the action.
Eric André and Hasan Minhaj
A funny moment. The comedians squeeze in for a photo in the VIP suite.
Deborah Gibson
The "Foolish Beat" singer sports her winter white during her performance.
Colbie Caillat
It's impossible not to say 'I do' to this singer's parade performance.
Busta Rhymes
The "Touch It" rapper puts his lyricism on display.
Dorinda Medley & Bowen Yang
Name a more iconic duo. The lifestyle personality and Saturday Night Live powerhouse pose in their peacoats.