It's a tradition that seems to be a part of Thanksgiving as much as turkey and cranberry sauce.
The annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will return to the streets of New York City once again to kick off the holiday season. According to Macys, more than 3.5 million spectators and more than 50 million television viewers are expected nationwide.
Among the largest crowd-pleasers at the parade are the giant helium-filled parade balloons that hover gently above the streets. Fan favorites like Snoopy, Superman and Kermit the Frog.
The parade line-up will include 17 giant character balloons, 24 novelty/ornament balloons, balloonicles, 27 floats, 100 cheerleaders and dancers, more than 1,000 clowns and 12 marching bands.
The balloons get their boost thanks to helium supplied by Linde North America, one of the world's major helium suppliers. This is Linde's 21st consecutive year as provider of helium to inflate and lift the giant balloons.
The video above gives some fun facts that you might not have known.
Andre Malok may be reached at amalok@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @AndreMalok. Find NJ.com on Facebook.