Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Macy’s, Inc.
Parade legend
“Snoopy is special to me,” says Will. “He’s the longest-running parade balloon!”
Every November, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes over New York City for a day. Nearly 3 miles of busy city streets are shut down to traffic. About 3.5 million people line the route. Thousands of performers sing and dance in the streets. Massive balloons—some more than 70 feet long—soar overhead.
It’s one of America’s most-watched entertainment programs on television. But how does an event this big come together? We asked Will Coss, the parade’s executive producer.
Can you explain what you do?
It’s my job to oversee everything behind the scenes for the parade. This can mean deciding what balloons to include or how floats are designed. I also help make sure everything and everyone is ready for the big day, rain or shine.
Did you always want this job?
I’ve always been creative. But this job wasn’t always one I thought I could do. I didn’t know anyone where I grew up who worked in entertainment and TV. But my family and teachers were always supportive. My mom would say, “Anything is possible.”