The annual 6 ABC Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to dazzle audiences in Philadelphia this year, featuring a vibrant mix of stage and screen stars. The parade will take place on November 27, 2024, and will be broadcast live from 8:30 AM to noon on Channel 6. This beloved tradition has become a staple of the Thanksgiving holiday, showcasing not only the festive floats and balloons but also an impressive lineup of entertainment that includes Broadway performances, live music, and appearances from popular television personalities.
Channel 6, which took ownership of the parade in 1986, has played a pivotal role in sustaining and enhancing the event. The station rescued the parade from decline after major department stores ceased their sponsorships. Today, the event continues to thrive, thanks to the efforts of Channel 6’s team, including department heads like John Morris, who coordinate with various performers and sponsors to ensure a memorable experience for viewers and attendees alike.
The lineup for this year’s parade is extensive and diverse. Among the featured performances will be the casts of touring productions currently at local theaters, including “Back to the Future: The Musical”, featuring Lucas Hallauer and David Josefsberg as Marty McFly and Doc Brown. Other productions like “Hadestown”, “Beauty and the Beast”, and “The Sound of Music” will also be represented, highlighting Philadelphia’s rich cultural landscape.
Additionally, the Philadelphia Orchestra and groups associated with the Kimmel Center, including the Philadelphia Ballet and Philadanco, are set to perform, adding depth and variety to the parade’s musical offerings. Anchors Cecily Tynan and Rick Williams will host the live broadcast, while other reporters including Adam Joseph, Karen Rogers, and Alicia Vitarelli will provide colorful commentary from the sidelines.
Television will also be well-represented, with appearances from stars of popular shows. Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, hosts of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” will participate, alongside Ryan Seacrest, who will reunite with Ripa at the parade. The iconic game shows “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune” will feature their respective hosts, Ken Jennings and Vanna White.
A significant highlight will be the presence of the cast from the acclaimed show “Abbott Elementary,” which includes Quinta Brunson and Sheryl Lee Ralph. Other entertainers slated to perform include the current version of The Four Tops, David Archuleta, and Jordin Sparks, ensuring a star-studded event.
As preparations continue, the parade remains a focal point of community spirit in Philadelphia. The event not only entertains but also serves as a reminder of the importance of local traditions, with Channel 6 playing a crucial role in its ongoing success. With an array of performances and a diverse cast of characters, the Thanksgiving Day Parade promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for all who attend or tune in.
