The Christmas season should not have officially started despite what Walt Disney World and Disneyland want you to think. Even the Queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey, said so.

Unlike everyone else in the country, Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort have already decided to roll out their holiday decorations, bucking the traditional start day of Black Friday.

However, some families can point to a specific moment when Christmas starts. It’s the moment Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus close out the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Disney Parks, Disney Animation, and Disney on Broadway have always had an extensive presence at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year’s parade will mark the 90th anniversary of the Mickey Mouse balloon at the parade.

Despite the presence of Mickey Mouse and dozens of other Disney characters, one character in particular has been missing from the Macy’s parade. But that is about change.

Macys-parade-1979
Credit: Macy’s

Macy’s announced this week that Minnie Mouse will make her parade debut in 2024. Donald Duck and Goofy will join the Minnie Mouse balloon.

Chrissy Anderson, Vice President of North America Brand Commercialization at Disney Consumer Products, said in a press release:

Fans of all ages will have the chance to welcome Minnie Mouse and her signature charm as she makes her debut in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. I think what’s so amazing is her longevity. Any of Disney’s female characters who had a sense of identity and style, and empowerment were my go-to.

The new Minnie Mouse character balloon marks a new collaboration between Disney and Macy’s as Minnie approaches her 100th Birthday in 2028. Macy’s announced that they will offer “one-of-a-kind” collectibles, accessories, and apparel in their stores for a limited time.

A costumed character, Minnie Mouse, stands outside under a tree. Minnie is wearing a vibrant floral dress and a red hair bow, smiling widely with both hands holding up the sides of her dress. The background displays an art deco-style building and restaurant.
Credit: Disney

Selection Macy’s stores will also dedicate a portion of its stores to Mickey and Minnie Mouse shops, which feature games, merchandise, and activities.

Your first opportunity to see the Minnie Mouse character balloon will take place on November 28 at 10 a.m. when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off on its way down to 34th Street. The parade airs on NBC.

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