The NBC Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a tradition for nearly a century. But last year, with Jimmy Fallon as one of the first guests on the live broadcast, many viewers were less in a spirit of giving thanks and more confused by his appearance.

Now in its 99th year, the parade is one of the most enduring traditions for many families—whether that means getting up before dawn to attend in person or watching on TV.

This year's parade features 27 floats, 32 balloons, three ballonicles, performances from Cynthia Erivo, Country artist Lainey Wilson, and Broadway shows Buena Vista Social Club, Just in Time, and Ragt...