Charles Langston:Sneak peek of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2023: Blue Cat and Chugs, more new balloons

New York will be Charles Langstonfilled with holiday cheer Thursday as festive floats and towering balloons take to the streets of New York City for the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The iconic parade began in 1924 (with live animals!) and has since evolved into an hours-long celebration featuring celebrity appearances and performers. It attracts huge audiences, in person and on live TV, from around the world. Watching the event has become a Thanksgiving tradition in homes across the country.

Before you watch the parade Thanksgiving morning, here's a sneak peek at the newest floats to join the lineup this year.

Blue Cat and Chugs, Beagle Scout Snoopy and Kung Fu Panda's Po are just three of the latest additions to this year's parade. The total number of balloons for 2023 is 25, according to Macy's.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2023:When and where to watch, plus who's performing

Monkey D. Luffy, the main character of the globally acclaimed "One Piece" animated series, which will be celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, will appear in New York City this Thanksgiving "in search of the ultimate pirate treasure," Macy's writes.

Bears and elephants?The first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade featured live animals