PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Thousands of people bundled up for the breezy weather started off their holiday bright and early in Center City and along the Ben Franklin Parkway for the Philadelphia's 104th Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Parade-goers — many, with turkey hats on — were sipping on hot cocoa or coffee as marching bands from all over the country and balloons like Mr. Potato Head, Strawberry Shortcake, and Pacman passed them by.
One of the first balloons people saw floating down the parkway was a giant turkey. Briana Wilkins of Fitler Square was one of the handlers for it. She was thrilled to be participating in her first parade alongside her sister.
“We were just looking to do something different this Thanksgiving and we were gonna run a 5k, but instead of doing a turkey trot we’re trotting the turkeys,” Wilkins.
Volunteers were trotting and spinning balloons for the crowd all morning long.
Lou DeCarlo from Delaware County was happy to see that. He had the kids in his family figure out a way to communicate with the volunteers who spun.
“They actually have signs that say “Spin It,” but they also have signs that say “Thank You,” DeCarlo explained. “First time we’re doing the signs because honestly we lose our voice after a while.”
The DeCarlo family is all too familiar with the parade. This tradition goes back about 40 years for them. And it has been enjoyed by loved ones from near and far.
“We have people here now from Belarus and Russia. Their first time here seeing the parade. So it really brings everyone together.”
Kristen Annuci was with her husband and young kids near the start at 20th and JFK Boulevard. She says she savors these moments.
“Being with family and making new memories every year,” she said. “And when we see Santa, then we know it’s official. The holidays are here.”
And Olly, 4 years old, was propped up on her mom Marquita’s shoulders watching the parade just how Marquita used to watch it on her dad’s shoulders.
“My father used to do this for me,” Marquita said. “So I decided to take my kids down here ... I believe every child should witness the parade at least once in their lives.”
She says reliving the excitement of it all through her daughter brings her great joy.
“It lights up my eyes to see her eyes light up.”