2025 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade brings holiday magic to Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The nation's oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade celebrated its 106th year with a number of people who make the 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade a family tradition.
The Allen family from Philadelphia's Fairmount neighborhood has been present for 90 out of 106 parades.
"This is our 90-year family tradition," said Anna Allen. "My father's father would bring him here when he was a child. And my father would bring us as we were children."
The Allen family continued a tradition like so many who line the parade route, which stretched from Center City to the Art Museum.
Families have attended decade after decade with their loved ones. They also honor loved ones.
"We still bring pictures of siblings who are no longer here," said Allen.
"We are here in memory of my grandfather, who passed away on Father's Day," said Dalmeir Mitchell of Drexel Hill. "It was a tradition for us to come every year with him."
This year's parade started out with some chilly weather, but people didn't seem to mind as they bundled up along the parade route. Later in the parade, the sun shone brightly to warm things up as people danced.
"It's a great vibe. It's a beautiful day," said Chris Drumm of Collegeville. His wife was among the Eagles cheerleader alumni who participated in the parade.
The celebration included a number of groups as well as marching bands from across the country, parades, floats, and celebrity entertainers like the Four Tops, Jordin Sparks and Cameo.
Crowds enjoyed the full parade experience.
"The marching bands are really awesome. I like the bands," said Denise Diaz of Pennsauken.
"I love the camaraderie. I love to see when Santa Claus comes. I'm a kid at heart," said Bernice Henry of Overbrook
The oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade in America has also become one of the oldest traditions for families in Philadelphia.
"Everyone comes together and we just all have a good time," said Mitchell, "and it feels like family. It feels like Thanksgiving!"
