Published on: October 24, 2025
Mario to Make First Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Appearance in 2025 for Super Mario Bros.
40th Anniversary
Nintendo fans across the United States have reason to celebrate this Thanksgiving as Mario, the beloved mascot of the Super Mario Bros.
franchise, is set to make his highly anticipated debut at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
The event, scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025, coincides with the 40th anniversary of the original Super Mario Bros., which first launched on the Famicom in Japan in 1985.
This marks the very first time the iconic character will be featured alongside the parade’s other legendary balloons, bringing Nintendo’s joyful universe to millions of viewers nationwide.
A Colossal Debut for a Gaming Icon
The highlight of the parade will be a massive new balloon depicting Mario in his signature flying pose from Super Mario Galaxy.
According to official specifications released by Nintendo, the balloon will measure an impressive 51 feet 2 inches long, 37 feet wide, and 43 feet 8 inches tall, ensuring Mario’s presence will be impossible to miss as he soars down Manhattan’s famed parade route.
Leadership from Nintendo of America, including Devin Pritchard, the Executive Vice President of Revenue, Marketing & Consumer Experience and incoming President, shared their enthusiasm for this milestone.
Pritchard remarked that Mario’s participation in such a cherished holiday event is a remarkable way to honor four decades of Mario’s legacy.
Reflecting on Mario’s enduring role in the gaming world, Pritchard stated that ever since Mario emerged from his first Warp Pipe, he has embodied Nintendo’s commitment to spreading happiness worldwide.
Pritchard added that the company is thrilled for Mario fans of all generations to witness the debut of this special balloon at the parade.
Expanding the Celebration: Nintendo New York Store
To further commemorate the occasion, the Nintendo New York flagship store will don festive decorations throughout the holiday season.
The store—already a landmark destination for Nintendo enthusiasts—will provide a unique and immersive experience, featuring a range of holiday-themed activities and displays that highlight Nintendo’s rich history and best-selling franchises.
Visitors can expect Nintendo-themed decorations, exclusive merchandise, and perhaps even familiar faces like Bowser dressed in holiday attire.
A Legacy of Innovation and Joy
The Super Mario Bros.
franchise, developed by Nintendo, stands as one of the most successful in video game history, with over 400 million units sold since its inception.
From the advent of the NES and Famicom era to the current Nintendo Switch platform, Mario has continually evolved, starring in best-selling titles such as Super Mario Odyssey and Super Mario Galaxy, and inspiring generations of game developers and fans alike.
Mario’s debut in the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is not just a tribute to past achievements but also a testament to the enduring cultural impact of Nintendo and the Super Mario brand.
Fans worldwide can look forward to a spectacular celebration honoring 40 years of adventures, innovation, and joy.
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