The First Balloon in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
The first Macy's Parade balloon was Felix the Cat, which appeared in 1927. Before that, the parade featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo.
How the First Balloon Was Made and Used
Felix the Cat was built as a large helium-filled character balloon, designed by Tony Sarg's team. It was carried through the streets and later deflated after the event.
Why the First Balloon Changed the Parade
The Felix the Cat balloon shifted the parade toward large-scale character floats. This innovation helped create the iconic visual style that defines the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade today.
