Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade: Balloon Rankings

by Bianca Luciano

Spongebob Squarepants and Gary

Now that another Thanksgiving has passed, let’s look at some of the best balloons that were part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. In first place is the most iconic figure: SpongeBob SquarePants. The balloon made its 21st appearance in the parade, standing an impressive 44 feet tall. This year, the SpongeBob balloon became the first squared-shaped balloon to ever float in the parade, making its presence even more meaningful. It also has added significance because it is promoting the new SpongeBob movie, SpongeBob SquarePants: Search for SquarePants, which is scheduled for release on December 19, 2025.

2. Beagle Scout Snoopy

Beagle Scout Snoopy and his best friend Woodstock have arrived in the depths of New York City with a new look. This marks the ninth version of Snoopy and honors the longest-running character balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. In 2025, Snoopy comes out of hibernation again to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Beagle Scouts, also known as Boy Scout Snoopy. With different styles each year—such as the astronaut Snoopy balloon in 2023—I wonder what Snoopy’s look will be for the 2026 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

3. Pikachu and Eevee

With the 25th appearance of Pokémon in the parade, Eevee and Pikachu are back — this time in a new ride: a Poké Ball–inspired sleigh. The balloon brings joy to millions of Americans as it celebrates the most anticipated holiday, Christmas, and keeps the Pokémon franchise alive.

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