Families planning to line the streets for one of the season’s most heart-warming parades will need to make a slight adjustment.
Due to the threat of bad weather, this year’s parade will now roll on Sunday at 12:30 p.m., instead of Saturday.
But organizers say the delay won’t dim the shine. Kristen Robinson, VP of Institutional Advancement at Children's, promises the celebration will still deliver every bit of the fun, joy, and connection families look forward to.
"We have thirty floats, twelve of them new, eight high-flying balloons, and plenty of marching bands and walking krewes."
One of last year’s most beloved additions is also back: the parade’s signature throw
" We have handmade ornaments crafted by the kids at Children’s Hospital."
Robinson says the tradition gives every child a chance to be part of the festivities, including those unable to leave their rooms. They’ll join the celebration through a special livestream so they can watch the parade roll by in real time.
This year’s parade will also honor three remarkable young warriors: a king and two queens, each recognized for showing extraordinary strength as they face and overcome big challenges.
"They'll be front and center on the first two floats and it will be very special to see."
Robinson says the vision for the event is only growing. Over time, she hopes the parade will become the “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade of the Gulf region,” and it’s already gaining traction with coverage across multiple media outlets.
The date may have changed, but the mission, celebrating courage, family, and the season’s true spirit, remains center stage.
