The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a tradition that dates back a century. But for some, seeing the balloons being prepared and inflated is as much an event as the parade itself, which celebrates its 100th anniversary on Thursday.

The inflation of the show’s 17 character balloons and 15 heritage balloons will be available for viewing the day before Thanksgiving.

Read on to learn how to experience the balloon inflation event.

How to watch the 2024 parade: What channel is Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on?

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation Celebration

Wednesday, November 27, from noon to 6 p.m., interested spectators are welcome at the American Museum of Natural History, where a balloon viewing trail loops around the museum.

To participate in the event, head to West 72nd Street and Central Park West. According to the event details on CentralPark.com, the viewing will last at least 45 minutes. Exit the event via West 81st Street and Central Park West.

What new balloons have been added to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

This year, a new Minnie Mouse balloon will debut during the parade, along with other Disney balloons Mickey, Pluto, Donald Duck and Goofy.

Other balloons you can expect to see during the parade include Extraordinary Noorah, Elf on the Shelf, DreamWorks’ Gabby, Goku from ‘Dragon Ball Z’, Nickelodeon’s Marshall and Spin Master, along with Marvel’s Spider-Man.

Tips and tricks for the best balloon viewing experience

CentralPark.com has provided several rules and recommendations for attending the balloon inflation:

• The following items are strictly prohibited: bags or backpacks larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches; coolers; alcoholic drinks; chairs; weapons; drones; pets; umbrellas.

• Participants should be prepared for a screening before entering the balloon viewing area.

• Strollers are not prohibited. However, CentralPark.com recommends leaving the strollers at home. “While strollers are not prohibited, they are difficult to push through the galleries,” the event website reads. “Try baby carriers or wait until children are older and can handle standing for long periods.”

• Eat before the event or bring snacks if you get hungry easily. The viewing path before inflating the balloon takes at least 45 minutes.

If you’re going to the 2024 Macy’s Balloon Inflation Celebration

When: Wednesday, November 27 from 12 noon to 6 p.m.

Where: American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West in Manhattan. Enter the inflation viewing area on West 72nd Street and Central Park West. The viewing path then winds around the American Museum of Natural History, where spectators exit West 81st Street and Central Park West.

For more information: View the Macy’s Balloon Inflation Celebration webpage at centralpark.com/events/thanksgiving-eve-balloon-inflating.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: How to see balloons early in NYC