Celebrate Thanksgiving in Stamford
/I’ve never been to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in person. I’ve watched it on TV countless times but I’ve never been brave enough to battle the crowds and elements to actually get there. I’m hoping to change this fact as my kids get older but for now, I feel really lucky to have a pretty awesome alternative nearby.
Each November, Downtown Stamford, CT transforms into a beautiful celebration of the upcoming holiday season by putting on one of the largest helium balloon parades in the entire country. And that’s only a part of what happens.
Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular
The Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular, presented by the Stamford Advocate, will begin at noon on Sunday, November 24th. The parade route starts on Summer Street and continues onto Broad and Atlantic Streets. There will be all kinds of balloons and floats and characters and local marching bands. There are also vendors selling parade merch and plenty of restaurants nearby to eat at. It’s a lot of fun and much easier to access than its NYC counterpart.
Finding parking that day can be tricky so do plan to get to the area earlier than noon to secure a spot. The crowds along the parade route will be big, but nothing compared to what it would be like at the Macy’s Parade.
Giant Balloon Inflation Party
If crowds and parades give you anxiety, consider instead visiting the pre-party the night before. On Saturday, November 23rd from 3pm until 6pm, head to where Hoyt Street meets Summer Street in Downtown Stamford for the Giant Balloon Inflation Party. Watch in awe as your favorite balloon floats get blown up. There will also be performers and characters at this event, including Bello Nock Comedic Daredevil and even a visit from Santa. The event is entirely free.
There’s no better place to be in the area the weekend of November 23rd-24th than Stamford, CT!
Note: This post updates the 2018 version.
