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6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade
A true Philadelphia tradition, the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade is the first and oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country.
The city streets make way for decked-out floats, towering balloons, and performances by musicians, dancers, marching bands and more.
Plus, Santa himself makes an appearance (in grand fashion), officially ushering Philly into the holiday season.
The parade begins on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2023 at 8:30 a.m., with a 30-minute pre-show followed by three hours for the parade and performances.
Philadelphia’s annual 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade promises a visual and celebratory feast — and features appearances from special guests and performers from around the region and beyond.
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
The day’s main attraction is the festive floats and massive balloons, which come in all shapes and sizes and often showcase holiday mascots and beloved children’s characters.
Also making an appearance: Santa Claus, of course.
Balloons and Floats
This year, keep an eye out for characters straight out of your childhood and an armada of fun and festive parade vehicles.
A Pirate's Life — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
2023’s parade balloons include Mr. Potato Head, Strawberry Shortcake, Smurfette, faves from Fraggle Rock and My Little Pony, and more.
The parade’s floats feature themes ranging from pirates and undersea critters to gingerbread houses and Philly landmark replicas.
Special Guests and Live Performances
2023’s eclectic mix of talent includes national stars like Ashley Keating, the Commodores and the cast of Dancing With the Stars, alongside local performers like Lady Alma, Felicia Punzo, PHILADANCO! and the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Other featured celebs include style superstar Carson Kressley, the Philadelphia Eagles’ Jordan Mailata, and OG power couple Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
One of the best places to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade is at the parade’s finish at the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Eakins Oval — home of the Thanksgiving Day Parade Zone 2023 — is also recommended.
Other locations including 20th & John F. Kennedy Boulevard or various points along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, like Logan Circle.
The Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place in the heart of Center City, with many prime viewing areas along Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
While metered street parking is free in Philadelphia on Thanksgiving Day, public transportation is the most reliable way to get there, as many streets along the parade route are closed to traffic for the event.
SEPTA Regional Rail, bus, subway, trolley and PATCO routes are within walking distance of the parade. Bike-share stations are also located nearby.
For more information about the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day parade, click the button below.
For those looking to indulge in even more seasonal fun, the Thanksgiving Day Parade route is just steps away from several other holiday attractions in and around Center City Philadelphia.
Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink during Winter at Dilworth Park — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Winter at Dilworth Park offers four holiday attractions right next to Philadelphia’s City Hall. Lace up and glide around the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink; stroll through the illuminated Wintergarden; shop local at the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market; or relax by the firepits and enjoy seasonal drinks in the chalet-style Rothman Orthopedics Cabin.
Also at City Hall — as well as nearby LOVE Park — Christmas Village in Philadelphia features a Ferris wheel, a double-decker carousel, tasty German treats and more than 120 vendors in rustic wooden cottages (with shops now open later in the evening). On sale: ornaments, accessories, handmade toys, high-quality arts and crafts, wintry apparel, and much more.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia — Photo by K. Kelly for Visit Philadelphia
A short walk east, Winter in Franklin Square programming offers festive events and winter games. This year’s attractions include the Ben Franklin-inspired Electrical Spectacle Light Show, an 18-hole outdoor mini-golf course packed with iconic winter characters, and street curling.
For more holiday attractions in Greater Philadelphia, click the button below.
The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute, or the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution.
Or maybe you’d prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package.
Which will you choose?
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