This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.. The excitement is palpable, especially with the upcoming 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade set to take place in Manhattan.
For the first time ever, Mario, Nintendo’s beloved mascot, will be making a grand appearance in the parade. The enchanting balloon, inspired by the classic 2007 game Super Mario Galaxy, will float through the event in a flying pose. Measuring an impressive 51 ft. and 2 in. long, 37 ft. wide, and standing 43 ft. and 8 in. tall, this balloon is not just a delight, but it’s a tribute to four decades of joy that Mario has brought to fans around the world. Devon Pritchard, Nintendo of America’s Executive Vice President of Revenue, expressed enthusiasm about this event, stating that it’s “an incredible way to honor the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros..”
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade producer, Jordan Dabby, added, “As Mario celebrates 40 years of inspiring players and families worldwide, his flight down the streets of Manhattan is both a historic milestone and a joyful celebration.” The parade has always been a platform for the world’s most cherished characters, and welcoming Mario into this tradition is an exciting addition.
In addition to the balloon, there’s more that fans can look forward to. Just this past September, Nintendo announced remakes for the two Super Mario Galaxy games for the Nintendo Switch 2, which were released in early October. Furthermore, fans can anticipate the release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on April 3, 2026, in the United States and April 24, 2026, in Japan.
Be sure to catch Mario as he takes flight at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Thursday, November 27.
What other characters will be featured in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? The parade regularly showcases an array of beloved characters, including iconic figures from various media, ensuring a festive atmosphere for all.
How can I watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live? You can tune in live on NBC on Thanksgiving morning to watch the parade and enjoy all the festivities.
What is the significance of the Super Mario franchise? Super Mario Bros. is not just a video game; it has become a cultural icon, bringing joy to millions globally and defining the platform game genre for decades.
When did the Super Mario franchise first debut? The original Super Mario Bros. game was released on September 13, 1985, and it quickly gained immense popularity, establishing Mario as a household name.
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