Hello Kitty Returns to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade With New Balloon and Exclusive 23-Piece Collection
Hello Kitty is returning to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for its 100th edition, and Sanrio and Macy’s are marking the occasion with a brand-new giant balloon and an exclusive 23-piece merchandise collection featuring apparel, accessories, pins, charms and seasonal décor. The new Hello Kitty balloon features the Sanrio character holding a bright red apple, a playful reference to New York City’s “Big Apple” nickname. The design was created specifically for the centennial parade and also serves as the inspiration for the accompanying Macy’s-exclusive product line.
The 23-piece collection uses Hello Kitty and Friends balloon-style artwork created exclusively for Macy’s and includes products from several recognizable collectible and accessory brands. Among the items announced are Loungefly backpacks and bag charms, a Kidrobot plush bag charm and pin set, seasonal décor from Blue Sky Clayworks, and women’s and girls’ apparel.
The exclusive artwork ties the merchandise directly to the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade rather than simply using standard Hello Kitty designs. Sanrio said the collection was created to give fans a way to bring home a piece of the parade celebration, making the items commemorative merchandise for both Hello Kitty collectors and fans of the long-running Thanksgiving tradition.
The entire capsule collection became available through Macy’s website on October 13. Physical merchandise will also begin arriving at the Macy’s Herald Square flagship store in New York on October 15, with select items available at Macy’s stores around the country.
“Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished American tradition, and we’re honored to celebrate this historic milestone with Macy’s,” said Jill Koch, Chief Brand Officer, Sanrio, Inc. “It’s incredibly special to see Hello Kitty return to the Parade with a brand-new balloon created for this moment. From her red apple, a playful tribute to New York City, to this exclusive collection, we’re excited to give fans new ways to share in the joy, nostalgia and excitement of this beloved holiday tradition.”
The collaboration arrives as Macy’s prepares to celebrate the 100th edition of its Thanksgiving Day Parade. The event will take place Thursday, November 26, with national coverage beginning at 8:30 AM across all time zones on NBC and Peacock.