Final rehearsals underway for 6abc Dunkin' Donuts Thanksgiving Day parade

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Final preparations are underway for the annual 6abc Dunkin' Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Action News got a preview some of the groups set to perform. The rehearsals started bright and early Wednesday.

Many of the performers taking part are part of musical acts visiting from across the country, like Varsity Spirit, a group of middle school cheerleaders.

The pressure is on, not only for the performers to get every cheer, dance and note perfect, but for parade organizers to shine as well.

"Today is definitely the most hectic day of all," said Operations Manager Debbie Lobel. "It's when all the last-minute details come in."

The stage on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art is set up and ready to, the 6abc anchor booth is fully assembled, and Eakins Oval has been transformed into a temporary television studio, complete with a control room, lights, cameras and - of course - several Action News vans!

Wednesday's calm weather and bright sunshine helped make the daytime rehearsals smooth.

They will of course continue well into the night hours.

Then Thursday morning, the 97th edition of the parade steps off, featuring dozens of balloons and floats, plus appearances by Ginger Zee, Drew Lachey, DJ Kool, and Broadway Philadelphia performances from "The King and I," "Mamma Mia," and "Dirty Dancing."

A great time is guaranteed for all!