Jaunted

New York, NY - Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: You might know this dominator as the biggest of the bunch. It's full of creepy balloons and marching bands. This year will be the parade's 80th, so expect extra-boistrous family-friendly celebration with the likes of Barry Manilow and Gloria Estefan. The parade starts at 9 am on Central Park West & 76th Street, and will be broadcast on NBC.

Detroit, MI - America's Thanksgiving Parade: Also in its 80th year, this event features floats, balloons and a "Distinguished Clown Corps" to rival the creepiness of New York's balloons. Motor City mayor Kwame Kilpatrick will present a key to the city to Santa Claus. Kicks off at 9:20 am on Woodward & Mack Avenues.

Chicago, IL - McDonald's® Thanksgiving Parade: Has enough corporate sponsorship and helium to rival New York. In fact, last year the Chicago parade had more "giant helium inflatables" than its rival. Starts at 8:30 am on State & Congress Streets and will be broadcast on ABC 7 Chicago. Will never truly beat New York due to the fact that it's a mere 73 years old.

Phoenix, AZ - Fountain Hills Thanksgiving Day Parade: "The only Thanksgiving Day Parade in Arizona." This traditional, small town-type event begins at 9 am on Saguaro and El Lago Boulevards. This year's theme is "Fountain Hills Loves a Parade." That's a theme?

[Photo: noj.johnson]