Thanksgiving is a day to be thankful, fill up on Grandma’s stuffing, watch football, and, for us Charlotteans, it’s a day to observe Novant Health’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The parade has been a Charlotte tradition for nearly seven decades. Much like the New York City staple, it’s an event full of colorful handmade floats and various giant character balloons that wind their way up Tryon Street all the way to 9th street. Nearly 1,000 dedicated volunteers and businesses from all over the city guide the balloons and wave to the gathered crowds.
Every Thanksgiving morning starting at 9:30 am, bundled up parade-goers line the streets where you can watch the marching bands, the dancers, and the special appearances all come together at the intersection of Tryon and Levine Avenue of the Arts.
Of course, the Parade would not be complete without the lovable turkey mascot herself, Queen Charlotte. In keeping with classic tradition, Santa Clause concludes the parade with Christmas cheer in in his magical workshop to welcome the beginning of the winter season.
If you’re too busy cooking to turn out in person, the parade will be televised on CBS at 1 PM. The 2016 version of the event will be full of treasured traditions as well as new parade additions that are to be revealed Thanksgiving Day. If you’re interested in attending, purchase tickets from www.novanthealth.com
