The Spider-Man balloon is a mainstay of Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. So it’s no surprise Marvel‘s web-slinger will be back for this year’s 98th annual celebration. The better news? The brand-new Spider-Man balloon is inspired by and in honor of the legendary John Romita Sr.
“Ever since Marvel Comics #1 hit stands in 1939, Marvel’s home has always been New York. So when the opportunity to work with Macy’s came about to bring one of our most iconic characters back to one of the most emblematic events of New York City, we knew this was the perfect fit for Spidey and our brand’s legacy,” said Chris Fondacaro, Head of Marvel Franchise, via a press release provided to Comic Book Club. “We’re absolutely thrilled to celebrate our roots and our fans while honoring one of the most indelible comic book creators from Marvel Comics: John Romita Sr.”
Held on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, in New York City, this will mark the first time in a decade Spider-Man has swung above the annual event. He first debuted in 1981 in “person.” Then as a balloon in 1987, appearing for over a decade before the original balloon was retired. A new version of the balloon made its return in 2009 and was last seen in 2014.
Though Spider-Man was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, John Romita Sr.’s design for the character is arguably the one most associated with his iconic look. He also contributed many indelible parts of Spider-Man’s legacy, most notably Mary Jane.
“Fans will be delighted to see Spider-Man swinging back into the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome everyone’s favorite web-slinger to this year’s spectacular balloon lineup,” added Jordan Dabby, producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “Just like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Spider-Man is a true New York City icon, and I can’t wait for live spectators and viewers across the country to erupt in excitement as Spidey soars high above the streets of the Big Apple on Thanksgiving morning.”
The 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will air Thursday, November 28 on NBC and stream on Peacock.