Quick Read
- Audrey Nuna performed at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
- She appeared alongside stars like Ciara and Busta Rhymes in a diverse lineup.
- The parade featured 34 balloons, 28 floats, and new additions like Buzz Lightyear and Pac-Man.
- Organizers monitored strong winds that could have limited balloon heights.
- The event reflects a growing focus on diversity and rising talent in American celebrations.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than a spectacle—it’s a stage where tradition meets contemporary culture, and 2025 was no exception. As the 99th annual parade unfurled across the chilly streets of Manhattan, it showcased not just whimsical floats and gigantic balloons, but also a lineup of performers who represent the evolving face of American music and entertainment. Among them, Audrey Nuna emerged as a highlight, capturing the attention of parade-goers and viewers nationwide.
Audrey Nuna, a rising artist known for her genre-blending sound and sharp lyrical style, took her place among heavyweights like Ciara, Busta Rhymes, and Kool & the Gang. For Nuna, performing at Macy’s parade was more than an invitation—it was a statement of arrival on one of America’s grandest stages. Her appearance reflected the event’s growing commitment to featuring a diverse range of voices, from established icons to emerging talent.
Audrey Nuna Joins a Star-Studded Lineup
This year’s parade was a melting pot of musical and artistic talent. Alongside Audrey Nuna, the crowd was treated to performances by not only pop and hip-hop stars but also Broadway casts, ballet dancers, and YouTube personalities. Notably, the fictional girl group HUNTR/X from Netflix’s ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ joined the festivities, blending digital pop culture with real-world spectacle.
Audrey Nuna’s inclusion speaks to the parade’s pulse on what’s next in music. Known for her innovative approach, she bridges R&B, rap, and experimental pop, and her performance at Macy’s is a sign that the parade is evolving beyond its traditional boundaries. It’s not just about celebrating established stars—it’s about spotlighting the future.
Performing Amid Whimsical Floats and Iconic Balloons
The parade’s visual feast included 34 balloons, four mini-balloons, and 28 floats. This year, new additions like Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, and a ‘Stranger Things’ float kept the event fresh. Audrey Nuna performed with a backdrop of elaborate creations—some crafted by Macy’s Parade Studio artisans, whose behind-the-scenes work brings fantasy to life each year.
For artists like Nuna, the parade offers a unique challenge and opportunity. Performing live in unpredictable weather—temperatures hovered around 42 degrees, with wind gusts that threatened balloon heights—demands versatility. Organizers closely monitored conditions, as city law restricts balloon flights in high winds, but the show went on, undeterred by the elements.
Representation, Diversity, and a Changing Stage
Audrey Nuna’s presence is part of a broader shift. The parade increasingly highlights artists who defy easy categorization, drawing from diverse backgrounds and genres. This inclusivity reflects a changing audience—one that seeks representation and fresh voices, not just nostalgia.
The parade’s roster included figures from ballet (Tiler Peck), sports (Ilia Malinin, Jack Wallace), and Broadway, as well as a host of musical guests—Jewel, Debbie Gibson, Gavin DeGraw, and more. But it’s the inclusion of artists like Audrey Nuna and the fictional KPop group that signals Macy’s commitment to staying relevant and reaching new generations.
The Cultural Impact of Macy’s Parade
For nearly a century, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a touchstone of American holiday tradition. Its blend of spectacle and sentimentality draws millions—both in person and on screen. Being invited to perform isn’t just a career milestone; it’s an opportunity to connect with a broad, multi-generational audience. For Audrey Nuna, it means her music reaches living rooms across the country, sharing space with family rituals and holiday memories.
In the context of 2025, when entertainment and identity are more intertwined than ever, the parade’s choices matter. By welcoming artists who reflect the diversity and dynamism of American culture, Macy’s is not just putting on a show—it’s helping to shape the cultural conversation.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Parade Experience
The artistry behind the parade is just as impressive as what audiences see. Each float and balloon is conceived and built by the Macy’s Parade Studio, where engineers, designers, and technicians work year-round. Seven new floats debuted in 2025, ranging from the LEGO Group’s Brick-tastic Winter Mountain to Netflix’s Upside Down Invasion from ‘Stranger Things.’
These elaborate creations set the stage for performers like Audrey Nuna, whose music and persona complement the imaginative energy of the event. The parade route itself—winding from the Upper West Side to Herald Square—is tightly controlled, with street closures and security ensuring that millions can gather safely. The NYPD’s presence, along with strict rules on what spectators can bring, underscores the scale and complexity of the operation.
Looking Ahead: What Audrey Nuna’s Performance Means
While the parade is rooted in tradition, it’s also a barometer for where entertainment is headed. Audrey Nuna’s performance is more than a moment—it’s part of a larger narrative about who gets to participate in national celebrations and whose stories are amplified. Her appearance marks a step forward for emerging artists, proving that platforms like Macy’s parade are open to fresh perspectives and new sounds.
As the parade wrapped up at Herald Square, and Santa Claus made his annual appearance, one thing was clear: the event continues to evolve, reflecting the music, culture, and communities that shape America. Audrey Nuna’s role in the 2025 parade is a sign that tradition and innovation can coexist, creating a richer, more inclusive celebration for all.
Audrey Nuna’s presence at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade isn’t just a performance—it’s a reflection of the event’s growing embrace of diversity and new talent. By giving rising artists a spotlight alongside established icons, Macy’s is shaping a future where tradition is enriched by innovation and representation. It’s a reminder that America’s cultural celebrations are at their best when they welcome every voice to the stage.
Image Credits to GettyImages