The Helium Magic Behind Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®

A Tradition Takes Flight

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade^® is a cherished American tradition, captivating audiences with its grand floats, marching bands, and, most notably, its gianthelium-filled balloons. These balloons have become iconic symbols of and fan favorites in the Parade,  thanks to the unique properties of helium. 

The Science of Floating Giants

Helium, the second lightest element, is the best option for inflating Parade balloons due to its low density, which allows the balloons to float. Additionally, helium is non-flammable and non-toxic, making it a safe choice for public events.

The science behind using helium for balloons is straightforward: when helium is contained within a balloon, the overall density of the balloon is less than that of the surrounding air, causing it to rise.

Behind the Scenes with Messer

Behind the scenes, Messer plays a crucial role in making sure everyone enjoys the Parade as the go-to helium gas supplier for Macy’s.

The journey of helium begins at Messer’s plant in Otis, Kansas, where crude helium is refined and liquefied. This liquid helium is then transported to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where it is converted back into gas and compressed into high-pressure tube trailers. These trailers are then trucked to New York City, ready for the big day. Throughout this entire process, Messer’s team is always adhering to strict helium safety standards.

The Art of Balloon Preparation

The preparation process is meticulous. The day before the Parade, Messer and Macy’s staff gather near Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Using a customized gas filling apparatus, the team begins inflating the balloons. Before the Parade steps off, the balloons are topped off with helium, so they are buoyant and ready to soar the skies on Thanksgiving morning.

Balloon Fun Facts 

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has featured spectacular balloons over the years. From the towering heights of Smokey Bear to the whimsical charm of Spiderman, these balloons are iconic symbols of the Parade.

Minnie Mouse, celebrating her 96th birthday, was added as a balloon to Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2024.	After making his official debut in 1968, Snoopy is the Parade’s longest running character, with nine balloon iterations.	Mickey Mouse made his debut in the Parade in 1934. The balloon was designed with the help of Walt Disney himself!

Voices from the Parade

Kathy D., a Messer driver who has delivered helium to the Parade, shared her experience: “My favorite event of the year. That's my truck parked in New York for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon fill.”	Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is definitely one of the coolest things I’ve done with Messer,” continued Sam F., another dedicated driver delivering helium to the Parade.	“As a driver for Messer, I’m glad I can be part of this Macy’s tradition for Thanksgiving,” says Ron D., a veteran driver. “The smiles and happiness we see on the faces of those attending the Parade, all the hard work is worth it.”

A Cultural Phenomenon

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than just a Parade; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has become synonymous with Thanksgiving in America. For many, the Parade marks the official start of the holiday season, bringing joy and excitement to millions of live spectators in New York City and viewers at home nationwide.

So, next time you see Snoopy or Stuart the Minion floating high above the streets of New York City, give a little nod to Messer’s helium and our dedicated team that helped to keep those magnificent balloons up in the air!