The 85th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade [PHOTOS]

Started in the 1920's, The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was originally intended for the employees, who were first generation immigrants, to celebrate Thanksgiving in a way that mirrored the festivals their parents had loved and spoke of in Europe.

Since then, the parade has made its way to the history books as one of the 2^nd longest standing Thanksgiving parade in America, only bested by America's Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit. Macy's parade often feature massive balloons, balloonicles (a portmanteau of "balloon" and "vehicle"), floats, marching bands, cheerleaders and famous performers.

For many, Thanksgiving isn't complete until they've watched the parade either in the streets of New York City or in the comfort of their own homes amidst the turkey basting and potato mashing. This year, 2 new balloon creations by Paul Frank ("Julius") and Tim Burton ("B") were unveiled, as well as the 2^nd version of game and cartoon character Sonic the Hedgehog.

This year's new balloonicle was from the Aflac Duck, the largest supplemental insurance company in the U.S. There were also brand new floats from Universal Orlando Resort P.B. Polar Bear, Zhuniverse, Frozen Fall Fun. So many performers came and celebrated with the enthusiastic crowd; this year, the public was in for a treat as these stars participated in Macy's parade.

The likes of Rodney Atkins, Big Apple Circus, Mary J. Blige, Cobra Starship, Neil Diamond, Michael Feinstein, The Fresh Beat Band, Cee Lo Green, Avril Lavigne, Shelby Lynne, Mannheim Steamroller, China Anne McClain, Scotty McCreery, Ingrid Michaelson, Sesame Street cast and Muppets, Daniel Radcliffe, Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan, performed, among others.

Truly, Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is a thing of beauty. So many generations have come to see and take part in it. It is something that has made itself part of the yearly tradition and reminds us that the holiday is really all about tradition, togetherness and joy.