Starck family:

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2026

New York City, NY

Thanksgiving 2026

November 24th- November 30th

Stepping onto the vibrant streets of New York City on Thanksgiving morning brings a thrilling rush of holiday magic. You immediately feel the electric energy of the crowd gathering for the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. As the marching bands play their lively tunes, massive helium balloons depicting beloved characters float majestically between the towering skyscrapers. Families and friends stand shoulder to shoulder, sharing warm cups of cocoa while watching vibrant floats and talented performers march down the avenue. This cherished tradition transforms the bustling city into a welcoming, festive community.

The excitement extends well beyond the morning parade, as the city offers a dazzling array of world-class entertainment to fill your evenings. A trip to the theater district reveals the unmatched brilliance of Broadway, where you can catch an unforgettable musical or a gripping drama under the glowing marquees. Just a few blocks away, the legendary Radio City Music Hall hosts the spectacular Rockettes for their annual Christmas Spectacular. Watching their famous precision dance routines and breathtaking costumes provides the perfect dose of holiday cheer. These incredible performances capture the vibrant spirit of the season, creating memories that last a lifetime.

No Thanksgiving getaway is complete without exploring the magnificent landmarks that define Manhattan in the late fall. You can bundle up and lace up your skates for a joyful spin around the world-famous ice rink at Rockefeller Center, surrounded by glowing lights and festive decorations. A leisurely stroll along Fifth Avenue treats you to intricate, seasonal window displays that look like miniature works of art crafted by master storytellers. Finally, you can escape the energetic city pace by wandering through Central Park, where the crisp autumn breeze and golden foliage offer a peaceful, picturesque conclusion to your perfect holiday trip.

November 24:
Depart for NYC

***SELF ARRANGED FLIGHTS***
Kicking off your Thanksgiving getaway begins with an effortless flight from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) straight to the busy runways of New York. Before you know it, the plane starts its descent, and the iconic Manhattan skyline breaks through the crisp autumn clouds. Watching those famous towers grow closer out your window signals the true start of your festive New York City adventure, trading a quiet Ohio morning for the electric energy of the holidays.
***Recommended flights:***
Columbus to LaGuardia
*Delta Airlines, DL5769, DL1669*
Departing 10:20am at 2:00 PM
*Note: there are direct flights but tend to be more expensive.*

November 24:
Arrival into NYC & Food Tour

Touching down in New York City just in time for Thanksgiving is an electrifying experience, as the crisp autumn air carries the undeniable buzz of holiday anticipation. The days leading up to the iconic late-November holiday transform the bustling streets into a vibrant tapestry of festive excitement. Navigating towards your hotel, you can immediately sense the magic that defines Manhattan in the fall, from the spectacular holiday window displays being unveiled to the distant sounds of marching bands rehearsing for the big parade.
After settling into your accommodations, there is no better way to conclude your first holiday evening than by embarking on a guided food tour through one of the city's legendary culinary neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village or the Lower East Side. New York boasts a staggering 25,000 restaurants, and your curated evening tasting walk allows you to bypass the overwhelming choices to sample authentic New York pizza, artisanal local cheeses, and rich desserts that perfectly set the tone for the upcoming feast. Walking shoulder-to-shoulder with locals under the glowing streetlights not only satisfies your cravings but also offers an intimate glimpse into the city's diverse cultural heritage.

Weather in New York City

Interactive Map of NYC

The Historic Blue Angel Hotel

**November 24-30, 2026**
**Address:**
152 East 55th Street, Midtown East, New York, New York, USA
**Phone:**
+16468786309

Tucked away in the heart of Manhattan at 152 East 55th Street, The Blue Angel Hotel NYC offers an intimate, boutique sanctuary for your holiday getaway. This welcoming retreat features contemporary accommodations designed to help you relax the moment you arrive. You can settle into your modern room and enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, a thoughtful touch that brings immediate comfort to your stay. To help you stay active during your trip, the hotel also provides a pass to the fabulous neighborhood gym, Blink Fitness.

Beyond the comfortable rooms, this prime Midtown location serves as the ultimate home base for your city adventures. Stepping outside puts you just a few blocks from the legendary Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade route on Sixth Avenue, giving you effortless access to the magnificent balloons and festive floats. A short walk connects you directly to the finest sights Manhattan has to offer. You can stroll north to take in the crisp air of Central Park, head toward the theater district to catch a brilliant Broadway show or wander nearby to see the famous ice rink and holiday displays at Rockefeller Center.

November 26:
*Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade*

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade transforms the bustling streets of Manhattan into a colossal canvas of holiday magic. Millions of eager spectators line the legendary route, creating an electric atmosphere as they wait for the awe-inspiring spectacle to begin. High above the crowds, giant helium balloons depicting beloved cultural characters float majestically between the towering skyscrapers, their vibrant colors standing out against the crisp autumn sky. Down at street level, a dazzling procession of elaborately designed floats rolls down the avenue, bringing intricate storytelling and festive cheer right to the roaring audience. The sheer scale of these towering balloons and moving stages captivates everyone, uniting locals and visitors in a shared moment of pure, festive wonder.
Beyond the visual marvels, the parade serves as a dynamic showcase of world-class musical talent and boundless energy. Talented marching bands from across the country step proudly down the route, filling the city air with booming percussion and lively brass melodies. Between these spirited musical groups, the casts of hit Broadway shows deliver show-stopping performances, bringing the unmatched brilliance of the theater district straight to the streets. The momentum of this incredible entertainment builds steadily toward the moment everyone anticipates: the iconic arrival of Santa Claus. Perched atop his magnificent sleigh, his joyous appearance officially kicks off the holiday season, leaving the cheering crowds with unforgettable memories of this world-famous tradition.
Experience the ultimate holiday magic from a private viewing area. Set against the backdrop of one of Manhattan's most prestigious avenues, this exclusive event combines front-row parade views with a sophisticated cultural experience. As you step into the gallery, you will find yourself surrounded by breathtaking contemporary art, including exclusive works by renowned photographers Paul Nicklen and Cristina Mittermeier. When the marching bands approach, you can step out into the private outdoor viewing area right on Central Park South to watch the massive balloons float by, offering an unparalleled and intimate vantage point away from the massive crowds.
While you take in the vibrant festivities, you can indulge in a lavish gourmet brunch buffet designed to satisfy every craving. The morning begins with unlimited specialty cocktails. Your culinary journey continues with an impressive spread of sweet and savory delights. You can fill your plate with freshly baked pastries, signature classic bagels topped with lox and cream cheese, and a vibrant fresh fruit platter. For a heartier bite, the menu features rich roast beef crostinis, artisanal cheese platters, and a variety of bistro salads, ensuring you stay well-fed and energized throughout the celebration.
Once the final parade balloon drifts out of sight, New York City transforms into a festive wonderland that invites you to continue your holiday celebration. Take a leisurely stroll down Fifth Avenue to marvel at the elaborate holiday window displays, which act as magical, miniature stages of festive storytelling. To complete your perfect day, you will gather around a warm table serving up a traditional Thanksgiving dinner that lets you simply relax and savor the holiday spirit.

November 27:

*Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island*

November 30:
***Depart for home***

**7:00 AM- Departure transfer to FCO airport**
*SELF ARRANGED FLIGHTS*
***AA Confirmation code: ANTYJL***
American Airlines flight AA111
Departing FCO at 11:05am
(Arriving ORD at 2:30pm)
*(3h 41m layover)*
American Airlines flight AA111
Departing ORD at 6:11pm
(Arriving CMH at 8:36pm)
While the departure may feel bittersweet, the memories and experiences collected during your stay will linger, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Italy and all of its cultural treasures.
**Your private driver will meet you at the hotel and take you to the FCO airport.**
Safe travels as you return home.
Until next time!

Add-On Experiences

TRAVEL DETAILS

FLIGHTS

**September 17**
*Self arranged flights*
**October 1**
*SELF ARRANGED FLIGHTS:*
Piedmont Air: AA111
Departing FCO at 11:05am
(Arriving BRL at 2:30pm)
*(3h 41m layover)*
Piedmont flight AA111
Departing BRL at 6:11pm
(Arriving CMH at 8:36pm)

Accommodations

**VENICE**
**September 18-20**
**Hotel Casa Verardo Residenza d'Epoca**
*Confirmation #:*
*Breakfast included*
Address: *Calle, Calle Castagna, 4766, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy*
Phone: *+3900415286138*
**LA SPEZIA (CINQUE TERRE)**
**September 21-22**
**NH La Spezia Hotel**
*Confirmation #:*
*Breakfast included*
Address: *Via XX Settembre, 2, 19124 La Spezia SP, Italy*
Phone: *+3900187739555*
**FLORENCE**
**September 23-27**
**Hotel Botticelli**
*Confirmation #:*
*Breakfast included*
Address: *Via Taddea, 8, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy*
Phone: *+39055290905*
**ROME**
**September 28-October 1**
**Delle Nazioni Roma**
Confirmation #:
Breakfast included
Address: *Via Poli, 6, 00187 Roma RM, Italy*
Phone: +*39066792441*

TRANSFERS

ARRIVAL TRANSFER
September 18
Water taxi from VCE airport to Venice hotel
DEPARTURE TRANSFER
October 1
Civitavecchia- FCO airport

TRAINS:

**September 28**
ItaloTreno (High speed train)
(PNR) Confirmation #:
12:43pm-Depart Florence Santa Maria Novella
2:04pm -Arriving Rome Tiburtina

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(PLEASE SUBMIT ONE REGISTRATION FORM PER HOUSEHOLD)

Pricing details

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable you have a criminal background; you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

Total Prices:

$

INCLUDEd IN THE QUOTE

Ground Transportation
- Round Trip Airport Transfers
  - Venice Airport (VCE) to hotel
  - Rome hotel to Rome airport (FCO)
Hotel Accommodations
- Venice
- Cinque Terre
- Florence
- Rome
Tours included in the daily itinerary above
Train transportation
- Florence Santa Maria Novella to Rome Tiburtina train station
Most taxes and fees
- Service fees and commissions (NON-REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

Round Trip International flights
Ground transportation not listed in the itinerary
Add-on Tours (unless specifically added on to the package)
Meals not listed or included on food tours
Gratuities for drivers and guides
Incidental charges
Local Tax

4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/credit card)
Optional Travel Insurance

REGISTRATION

A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)
- If you have more than 2 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 2 people.

FINAL PAYMENT

Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.
Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.
Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 120 days before departure. Cancellations more than 120 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

F.A.Q.

Do I need to validate my train ticket before boarding my train?

Short answer: NO.

High-Speed Trains (What you’ll likely be on)

ItaloTreno
Florence → Rome

What you do:

DO NOT check in at a station machine
Just:
- Show up at the station
- Go to your platform
- Board the train

Your ticket:

Already includes:
- Train number
- Departure time
- Seat assignment

NOTE: Your printed ticket (or phone) is your “boarding pass”

Onboard:

A conductor will scan your ticket after departure

So your process is:

Arrive ~20 minutes early
Check departure board for platform (“binario”)
Walk to platform
Board the correct car
Sit in assigned seat

That’s it. No check-in. No validation.

Common mistakes (avoid these)

❌ Trying to “validate” a high-speed ticket (not needed)
❌ Waiting in line at ticket counters (waste of time)
❌ Boarding wrong train (check train number, not just destination)
❌ Getting on wrong carriage (your seat is specific)

Pro tip (this matters more than check-in)

In Italy:

Platforms are sometimes posted 10–15 minutes before departure
Trains are long, so know your car number so you don’t sprint last minute

SHOULD I TIP THE GUIDE AND DRIVER?

Yes!
Your guides will be working hard for you all week, so showing a little gratitude in the way of gratuity is appropriate.
Consider a tip of about €10-20/pp/day that you tour with the guide.

This is NOT mandatory, but it is kind and it is appreciated.

As for the drivers- we suggest a tip of €5/pp/day (+ €2/bag is an appropriate tip).

Euro is the accepted currency

Italy is part of the European Union and uses the Euro. This is easily available at your local bank, usually at zero or minimal cost. You can also exchange it at the airport, but you will pay a much higher fee to exchange from US dollar to euro. If exchanging at your bank, make sure to start the process at least 3 weeks before you leave to make sure there are no issues.

Electrical converter and adapter

You will an electrical converter. Italy uses 230 volts while the US uses 120. You phone charger will not work there without a specific adaptor. In addition, any other electrical devices will need an adaptor as while. It is important, that when plugging in a device such as a laptop, that a quality power CONVERTER, not adaptor is used. Adaptors will work on devices like cellphones, not laptops.

Are meals INCLUDED?

Included:

Breakfast is included daily at all of your hotels.

Food during your Venice and Florence food tours.

NOT included:

Lunches

Dinners (outside of food tours)

Is the bread free?

Often, when dining out in Italy, the waiters will bring you bread when you sit down at your table. This is not free and will be added to your bill if you partake from it. If you do not want it, it best to say no thank you and have them remove it.

Neither is the water

You will be asked if you want bottled water, sparking or still/calm. There is a nominal charge for this (2-3 euros) per bottle. Usually, one bottle is enough for your meal.

IS the water safe to drink?

Absolutely. The tap water is safe to drink in Italy. And Rome has over 2,500 drinking water fountains, known as nasoni. These fountains provide free, fresh (sourced from springs and aqueducts) drinking water and are a significant part of the city’s infrastructure and culture.

beware of pickpockets and scams

Leave your important documents in the hotel safe and only take cash when you need it. If must carry them, make sure your wallets, passports, and important documents are kept secured in a pouch or purse, slung across your body and not over your shoulder. Zippers should be kept closed and turned inward towards your body if possible and fold your arms across it. If possible, purchase a slash-resistant purse or pouch. Always be aware of your surroundings. Never, EVER, use your back pocket to carry anything, including your cellphone. Use your front pockets.

Also, never interact with anyone selling anything on the street. Do not take anything handed to you. If you do, they will immediately ask for payment. Often, if you are eating outside on a patio, they might place the object on the table in front of you. Do not touch and immediately say “No. No thank you” and ignore them. If they continue to bother you, call your waiter.

cash versus cards

Credit cards are accepted at most places but one should carry small amounts of cash for tips and for taxis. Visa is the most accepted card in Europe while American Express is less so. If your current card doesn’t support international use or charges transaction or currency conversion fees, consider getting a new card specifically for foreign travel that doesn’t charge such fees.

What should I when visiting Cathedrals, Basilicas and other religious sites?

Cover Shoulders and Knees: Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops, tank tops, shorts, or skirts above the knee. A lightweight scarf or shawl can be handy to drape over your shoulders if needed.

Avoid Revealing Clothing: Steer clear of low-cut tops, crop tops, or clothing that is too tight or sheer.
Comfortable Footwear: While there are no strict rules about footwear, comfortable shoes are recommended as you may need to walk or stand for extended periods.
Hats and Headwear: Hats should be removed before entering religious sites as a sign of respect.
Seasonal Adjustments: In summer, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that still provide coverage, such as linen or cotton. In cooler months, layering is a good option to stay warm while adhering to the dress code.

By dressing modestly and respectfully, you’ll not only ensure entry to these sacred spaces but also show appreciation for their cultural and religious significance.

When can i take pictures?

Most places allow pictures to be taken, both inside and outside but may vary from location to location. Always check with the guide or local authority to see if it is allowed, especially within cathedrals and churches. While it is generally allowed to take pictures of the plaster casts of the Pompeii victims, but it’s important to do so respectfully. These casts are not just historical artifacts; they represent the tragic loss of life during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We found this to be a fastest, easiest, and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go into your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

It is FREE (no processing fees)!
It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.
It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

Mail the check
Deposit directly at a local branch

Travel Insurance Options

Travel insurance offers invaluable peace of mind by protecting you from unexpected events that can disrupt your trip. It provides financial coverage for a range of situations, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or delayed luggage, and unforeseen travel delays. With travel insurance, you can avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially in cases of medical emergencies abroad where healthcare costs can be high. Additionally, it ensures access to 24/7 assistance services, helping you navigate challenges like rebooking flights or finding medical care in unfamiliar destinations. Zone-Travel will be happy to provide you with options that best suits your needs and budget.