It’s wild that Mario—the Mario—has never had his own balloon at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade until now. We’re talking about a character more recognizable than most actual celebrities, a franchise that’s generated billions of dollars, and a cultural icon who’s been jumping on turtle shells since your kids (or, let’s be real, you) were probably still in diapers.
The guy has theme parks, blockbuster movies, and more merchandise than you can shake a Fire Flower at. But a giant inflatable version of him floating past Macy’s Herald Square? That inexplicably never happened.
Until now.
Nintendo and Macy’s announced this week that a brand-new Super Mario balloon will make its grand debut at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 27, 2025. The timing couldn’t be more perfect. This debut coincides with the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros., which first launched in Japan way back in 1985—yes, that game is turning 40. Feel old yet?
A balloon 40 years in the making
“Having Mario join this iconic holiday tradition is an incredible way to honor the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.,” said Devon Pritchard, EVP of Revenue, Marketing & Consumer Experience at Nintendo of America.
The balloon itself is genuinely impressive from a technical standpoint. Created by Macy’s Parade Studios in partnership with Nintendo of America, this floating Italian plumber measures 51 feet, 2 inches long, 37 feet wide, and 43 feet, 8 inches tall. He’ll be decked out in his classic blue overalls and signature red cap, striking a flying pose inspired by Super Mario Galaxy—which, if you haven’t played it, you absolutely should.
The parade’s had everything from Snoopy to SpongeBob over the years, so Mario’s arrival feels less like a novelty and more like a correction of a glaring oversight.
Mario’s having a moment
Mario’s everywhere right now: He’s on Switch (Super Mario Party Jamboree, Super Mario Bros. Wonder), on Switch 2 (Mario Kart World), and he’s headed back to theaters with The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on April 3, 2026.
If you’re planning to be in New York City during the parade—or honestly, anytime during the holidays—you can also stop by Nintendo NEW YORK in Rockefeller Plaza, which will be decked out with festive décor and “Nintendo-themed holiday magic.” Because apparently, one giant Mario floating through Manhattan isn’t enough Mario for one holiday season.
How to watch
The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airs Thursday, November 27, 2025, on NBC and streams on Peacock from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in all time zones. Set your DVRs, folks—or just wake up early with your coffee and stuffing prep.
After four decades of rescuing Princess Peach, defeating Bowser, and defining what video games could be for multiple generations, Mario’s finally getting the parade treatment he’s always deserved. Wahoo, indeed.
Sources: Nintendo, Gaming Trend