Super Mario Balloon to Make Historic Debut at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for 40th Anniversary

Nintendo is set to make history in 2025 as part of the landmark 40th anniversary celebration for the Super Mario Bros.

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This year, fans will see Mario soar above Manhattan for the first time ever in balloon form during the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, scheduled to take place on November 27, 2025.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished American tradition, drawing millions of viewers both in-person and through nationwide broadcasts.

With nearly a century of parades and numerous pop culture icons having been showcased over the years—including Nintendo’s own beloved Pikachu—this marks the first occasion that Mario, one of the most recognized video game characters worldwide, joins the iconic event as an official balloon. Nintendo of America shared an early 3D model of the Mario balloon through their social media, offering fans a glimpse of what’s to come.

The announcement underscores a milestone moment for both Nintendo and the Super Mario series, which made its debut in 1985 and revolutionized the platform gaming genre on systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and, more recently, the Nintendo Switch. In a statement to the press, Devon Pritchard, Nintendo of America’s Executive Vice President of revenue, marketing, and consumer experience, emphasized the significance of Mario’s parade debut: “Welcoming Mario to this beloved holiday celebration is a fantastic tribute to 40 years of Super Mario Bros.

Since his beginnings, Mario has symbolized Nintendo’s mission of spreading joy worldwide.

We look forward to seeing fans celebrate his introduction in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.” Jordan Dabby, who serves as Producer for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, also highlighted the excitement around this year’s collaboration.

“The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is renowned for spotlighting the world’s favorite characters.

This year, we are delighted to partner with Nintendo to present a brand-new Mario balloon.

With Mario reaching a four-decade milestone of inspiring families and gamers alike, his flight over Manhattan is sure to be a momentous and festive highlight for fans everywhere.” Nintendo’s official website encourages parade visitors to enhance their New York City experience by stopping at Nintendo New York, the flagship store near Rockefeller Plaza.

The store, regarded as a premier destination for Nintendo enthusiasts, will feature a wide selection of Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 games, as well as exclusive merchandise across Nintendo series.

From November onward, the store will also be decked out for the holidays, offering a unique and festive atmosphere for all attendees. With the unveiling of the first Mario balloon, Nintendo continues its tradition of engaging fans through public spectacles and community events.

As the Super Mario franchise celebrates its 40th anniversary, the historic parade appearance serves as a testament to Mario’s enduring legacy and Nintendo’s remarkable influence on gaming culture.

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