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The 99th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is being held in New York City on Nov. 27

Notable parade performers include Jewel, Ciara and Busta Rhymes

PEOPLE is covering the Macy's parade live, including new balloons

For nearly a century, Thanksgiving hasn't officially begun until the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade makes its way through the streets of New York City. Families gather around the TV as giant balloons glide between skyscrapers, marching bands bring the holiday spirit to life and Broadway casts give a preview of the season's biggest musicals.

This year’s parade, which is the 99th annual, kicks off Thursday, Nov. 27. It's airing live on NBC and streaming on Peacock. Coverage begins at 8:30 a.m. in all time zones.

For those who want to relive the magic, or

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