Editorials

Zodiac Signs as Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Floats

Jana Schodzinski, Staff Writer

November 9, 2023

Original artwork by Jana Schodzinski

Capricorn-Opening Macy's Stars

The Opening Macy’s Stars may not be the ‘star’ of the show, but they are a key detail that simply adds to the overall magic that is the Macy´s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Though they often go unnoticed, they are just as extravagant as the rest of the balloons, as they come in a vast range of unique colors and sizes. Capricorns are the Opening Macy’s Stars due to their hardworking attitude that often goes unnoticed by their peers.
Aquarius- Palace of Sweets

The Palace of Sweets float is a new addition to the Macy’s family this Thanksgiving. The float depicts a vibrantly decorated gingerbread house and a large ornamental Christmas tree. It is sponsored by Brach’s, a company that sells candy, specifically candy canes. Aquarians are the Palace of Sweets float, as they are known for being revolutionary, sweet, and innovative, just like the arrival of this new float.
Pisces- Birds of a Feather Stream Together

This float features a multi-story metallic peacock in honor of Peacock, the streaming service. Though this is a relatively new float, it is a show-stopper due to its shiny appearance and cool-toned hues. Pisceans are known escapists, which is why this float is perfect for them. Seafoam green is a Piscean’s power color, and this float has lots of it. In addition, this float is creative, imaginative, and ethereal, just like Pisceans.
Aries- Bluey

As you may know, the Australian cartoon “Bluey” has been rapidly growing in popularity over the past few years. Last year, a new balloon was added to the lineup to honor the cartoon. The balloon is a 52-foot-tall recreation of the infamous Blue Heeler playing with a red balloon. Similar to Bluey, the main character of the show, Ariens are passionate, positive, and determined. In addition to this, Ariens’ power color is red, just like the red balloon pictured with Bluey!
Taurus- Acorn

Though many may see the Acorn balloon as boring or unoriginal, it’s a classic. The Acorn balloon is 21 feet wide and can hold over 15 million real acorns. Acorns are a fall staple, and they represent patience, prosperity, and luck. Taureans are known for their down-to-earth manner, loyalty, and grace. Taureans are the Acorn balloon, as they are dependable, patient, and overall great people to be around!
Gemini- Spongebob Squarepants & Gary

If you’ve ever seen Spongebob Squarepants, you know that Spongebob and his pet snail, Gary, are completely inseparable. In the hit kids’ cartoon, Spongebob and Gary are known for being outgoing, curious, and humorous- just like Geminis! In addition, Geminis are referred to as the “twin sign” of the zodiac, meaning they balance a multitude of different hobbies and traits. This relates to the Spongebob Squarepants & Gary balloon, as these two characters are pictured together in one balloon.
Cancer- 1-2-3 Sesame Street

“Sesame Street” is a popular children’s show known for being educational, upbeat, and at times, goofy. The 1-2-3 Sesame Street float features the characters from the show alongside members of Sesame Workshop, a nonprofit organization that educates children not just on schoolwork, but also on kindness and manners. This reflects Cancerians’ ways of being nurturing, intuitive, and emotional.
Leo- Tom Turkey

If you’ve ever watched the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you most likely know that the Tom Turkey float ushers in the parade as the leading float. The Tom Turkey float features a 21-foot tall self-propelled turkey dressed as a pilgrim, alongside many cheerleaders dressed in traditionally Thanksgiving-esque colors. The Tom Turkey float is the center of attention, just like Leos! Leos are known for being confident, passionate, and brave- just like Tom Turkey.
Virgo- Snow Crystal Ornaments

Introduced in 2004, the Snow Crystal Ornaments balloons are 34.6 feet tall balloons and resemble Christmas tree ornaments. They are cobalt blue with silver and white detailing. These colors are also Virgoans’ power colors. In addition to this, the intricate designs on the balloons can mirror Virgoans’ practical and logical ways.
Libra- Deck the Halls

The Deck the Halls float depicts numerous Christmas trees, surrounded by garland, holly, presents, and ornaments. It has three stories decorated with red bows and golden detailing. This reflects Librans’ ways of being perceived as inviting, cozy, and overall warm people. This float exudes a feeling of happiness and joy- just like Librans.
Scorpio- Igniting Memories

The Igniting Memories float is a new addition this year. It is sponsored by Solo Stove and depicts a cozy campsite with a campfire, autumn trees, an RV, and a table and chairs. It gives viewers a feeling of hominess and joy. The Igniting Memories float represents Scorpios, as both the float and the sign are powerful, beautiful, and overall authentic.
Sagittarius- Macy’s Singing Christmas Tree

The Macy’s Singing Christmas Tree is returning for its seventh parade. The Macy’s Singing Christmas Tree float consists of a large, ornamental Christmas tree with carolers standing inside of it, singing Christmas tunes. It features numerous larger-than-life Christmas presents underneath the tree as well. Sagittarians are known for being reliable, just as this float is reliably a part of the parade each year. If Sagittarians were a float, they’d be the Macy’s Singing Christmas tree, as they’re faithful, positive, and idealistic.

zodiacs

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About the Contributor

Jana Schodzinski, Staff Writer

Jana Schodzinski is a copy editor for The Park Press. She joined the staff her freshman year, and is beyond excited to return. Outside of The Park Press, she writes for the Red Folder, a nationwide student-run news organization, and The Extemper’s Bible, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free forensics resources to all extemporaneous speaking competitors. Outside of journalism, she is president of the WPHS speech team, founding president of the WP Youth Leadership Association, and avid community and regional theater actress. After high school, she plans to get her B.A. in political science.