Mario Receives New Balloon for Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade 2025: 40th Anniversary Tribute

Nintendo is marking a major milestone for one of its most beloved characters with a fresh addition to the upcoming Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the original Super Mario Bros., the legendary developer has officially announced a brand-new Mario balloon set to soar over New York City on November 27, 2025. The upcoming parade, a nationally televised event renowned for its vibrant floats and pop culture icons, will showcase Mario in a unique design crafted exclusively for this special anniversary.

Nintendo revealed that the new balloon will feature Mario in his classic blue overalls, striking a dynamic, airborne pose inspired by the acclaimed Nintendo Switch title "Super Mario Galaxy." This design celebrates Mario’s enduring legacy, blending nostalgia with a nod to his more recent cosmic adventures. Nintendo of America shared a first glimpse of the 3D model for the balloon via its official social media channels on October 24, 2025, stating, "On November 27, Mario will soar above New York City during the #MacysParade, in honor of the 40th anniversary of the original Super Mario Bros.

game." Since its debut in 1985, the Super Mario Bros.

franchise has become a cornerstone of the gaming world, selling hundreds of millions of copies across multiple console generations, including the Nintendo Switch.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has historically welcomed iconic characters from across media, but Mario's inclusion for this milestone brings added significance for fans and Nintendo alike. This marks the latest in a series of celebrations for Mario’s 40th anniversary, which have included limited-edition game releases and exclusive merchandise on the Nintendo eShop.

The parade appearance will further solidify Mario’s lasting cultural impact, giving both long-time fans and newer audiences a reason to cheer as the iconic Italian plumber takes to the skies above Manhattan. Be sure to tune in to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 27, 2025, to catch Mario’s newest high-flying adventure and join Nintendo in celebrating four decades of Super Mario Bros.

excellence.

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