New York City officials have implemented robust security preparations for the upcoming Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, even in the absence of any specific threats. At a press briefing, Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch referenced the recent shootings of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., explaining that such events were factored into comprehensive security planning for the parade.

The 99th iteration of the parade, a tradition since 1924, is expected to draw roughly 3.5 million spectators along its 2.5-mile Manhattan route, with another 50 million watching on television. Forecasts predict temperatures in the low 40s at the 8:30 a.m. start at 77th Street and Central Park West. Officials are monitoring wind conditions, as gusts of up to 35 mph would ground large balloon characters, including Minnie Mouse, Spiderman, and Dora, in accordance with city regulations.

The NYPD’s security measures include thousands of uniformed and plainclothes officers, drones, bomb-sniffing dogs, radiation detectors, specially armed units, and aviation support. These precautions were underscored as crews inflated parade balloons on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.

Spectators are strictly prohibited from bringing large bags, beach chairs, drones, pets, alcoholic beverages, umbrellas, and coolers. Public viewing areas are designated along Central Park West, Central Park South, and the Sixth Avenue parade route, as detailed by Macy’s organizers.

The parade, signaling the start of the holiday season, features 5,000 volunteers, 34 balloons, 28 floats, 11 marching bands, nine performance groups, and more than two dozen singers and performers. During the event, crosstown traffic in Manhattan will experience significant disruptions.

Beyond the parade, Thanksgiving meals demand careful food safety measures. The CDC reports a rise in foodborne illnesses in November and December, emphasizing proper preparation, serving, and storage of turkey and other dishes. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) identifies Thanksgiving as the peak day for home cooking fires.

Proper thawing of a frozen turkey is essential. Donald Schaffner, microbiologist at Rutgers University, recommends refrigerator thawing—approximately 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds—or cold water thawing at 30 minutes per pound with water changes every 30 minutes. The turkey should remain in its packaging to prevent bacterial spread.

Extreme caution is advised when using turkey fryers. Dr. Robert Schwaner of Stony Brook University Hospital warns against dropping frozen turkey into hot oil, which can trigger flames and dangerous boil-overs. Fryers should be placed away from buildings and never overfilled with oil.

Washing the turkey is discouraged, as it does not eliminate germs and may spread bacteria across the kitchen. A tip-sensitive digital thermometer should be inserted into the thickest part of the turkey, confirming a minimum internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness from salmonella, C. perfringens, and campylobacter.

Cooked meals should not remain at room temperature for more than two hours before refrigeration. For leftovers, containers should be no more than two inches deep and covered lightly to allow heat to escape before refrigerating. Refrigerated leftovers last about three days, while frozen portions may last longer but can experience slight flavor loss. For comprehensive guidance, FoodSafety.gov provides detailed resources.