6abc Ikea Thanksgiving Day Parade

PHILADELPHIA - November 26, 2008 The Pennsbury marching band rehearsed in front of the art museum for what will be it's 25th annual appearance in Philadelphia's Thanksgiving Day parade.

Performers ran through their numbers all day to get ready for tomorrow's holiday spectacular.

"A lot goes in to making this parade happen," said parade co-producer Todd Marcocci. "It's all about the arrival of the holiday season, and it comes back to the word "family."

The parade features fantastic floats that sit ready to roll, giant helium balloons, bands from across the country, and child favorites like the Sesame Street characters.

They rehearsed after singing sensation and former "Dancing with the Stars" contestant Mario ran through the number he'll sing for parade watchers tomorrow.

"We have a lot to be thankful for, so bear that in mind while eating that turkey, eating that good food," Mario said.

Before leaving, the popular r&b and hip hop star stopped to pose with some young fans.

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