Mario will make his long-awaited debut as a giant character balloon in the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, set for November 27, 2025, in New York City. The appearance coincides with the 40th anniversary of the original Super Mario Bros. game, marking a milestone celebration for Nintendo’s most iconic character.
For the first time in the parade’s nearly century-long history, Mario will join the lineup of beloved balloons that float above Manhattan on Thanksgiving morning. The balloon, designed by the Macy’s Parade Studio in collaboration with Nintendo of America, depicts Mario in his classic red-and-blue outfit, striking a flying pose inspired by Super Mario Galaxy. The design captures the adventurous spirit of the character while paying homage to one of the franchise’s most celebrated titles.
The Mario balloon is an impressive feat of engineering, measuring 51 feet and 2 inches long, 37 feet wide, and 43 feet and 8 inches tall. Its sheer size ensures that the character will be a standout among the parade’s roster of floats and balloons, which traditionally include cultural icons, animated favorites, and seasonal symbols. The balloon’s creation required months of planning and artistry, with teams carefully balancing scale, color, and durability to bring Mario to life in the skies above New York.
Nintendo executives emphasized the cultural significance of Mario’s inclusion in the parade. Devon Pritchard, Executive Vice President of Revenue, Marketing, and Consumer Experience at Nintendo of America, described the debut as “an incredible way to honor the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.” and highlighted Mario’s role in “bringing smiles to faces all over the world since he first emerged from a Warp Pipe.” The company views the parade appearance as both a tribute to the character’s legacy and a celebration for fans of all ages.
The timing of Mario’s debut is particularly meaningful. The original Super Mario Bros. launched in Japan in 1985, revolutionizing the video game industry and cementing Mario as a household name. Four decades later, the character remains a global symbol of fun, creativity, and family entertainment. By joining the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Mario steps into another American tradition, bridging the worlds of gaming and holiday celebration.
Fans attending the parade in person, as well as millions watching the live broadcast, will witness Mario soaring above the streets of Manhattan alongside other iconic balloons. Nintendo has also planned special tie-in events, including celebrations at the Nintendo New York store, ensuring that the anniversary is marked not only in the skies but also on the ground with interactive experiences for fans.
The debut of the Mario balloon underscores the enduring cultural impact of the Super Mario franchise. From video games and merchandise to theme parks and films, Mario continues to expand his presence across entertainment. His arrival at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is both a nostalgic nod to his past and a bold statement about his continued relevance in popular culture.
