There’s nothing more nostalgic than sitting in front of the TV with family and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. With massive balloons and decades of different floats and performers, we look forward to it every year.
It’s Tom Turkey!
While you’re probably already tuning in for the new Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey balloon, it will be even more fun with Universal Orlando’s first-ever character balloon!
Universal Orlando Resort is getting its first-ever Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon this year, and it will feature the resort’s Christmas icon, Earl the Squirrel! Based on the concept art, Earl will appear in his red flannel trap hat and “I love acorns” sweater just like he does in the parks! But unlike his park appearances, he’s holding a massive blue Christmas light.
©Universal Orlando Resort
“Inspired by the beloved tale of a scruffy little squirrel who chewed through the blue lights on Universal Studios Florida’s Christmas tree, Earl has grown into one of the destination’s most cherished holiday traditions and proudly carries his signature blue lightbulb as a tribute to his past,” the concept art reads.
The Christmas tree at Universal Studios Florida
“The lore of the lights is really what we latched onto. How do we bring his trusty lightbulb with him and create a new balloon?” said Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade creative director Brendan Kennedy to Entertainment Weekly. “It all starts with a sketch, which gets 3D modeled. We do a little bit of flight testing to make sure it can fly well. We wanted to make sure we got the character just right, but also that he could fly perfectly!”
Earl may try to bum that free cup off of you!
We’re so excited to see Earl’s new balloon during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 26th at 8:30 AM EST. To say hi to Earl the Squirrel in person, he meets daily at Universal Studios Florida and on weekends at Universal CityWalk from November 14th, 2026, through January 3rd, 2027. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on more holiday festivities, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog!
NEW Disney Float Revealed for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!
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Will you be watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this year? Comment below!
