Talkin’ Turkey

There’s nothing quite like Thanksgiving. The family get-togethers, the giant turkey and enough overeating to put an elephant in a coma. It’s also time for another one of Philadelphia’s great traditions: The Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Dating back to 1920, the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade is the nation's oldest. That’s right – it all started here in the City of Brotherly Love. Beautiful floats and giant balloons are escorted down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, with dance teams and musical performances kicking-off the official start of the holiday season in grand style. And what Thanksgiving Day Parade would be complete without Santa!

The parade starts at 8:30 tomorrow and lasts until Noon. It’s a great event to watch from the comfort of home, but there’s nothing quite like being there. And with temperatures reaching the 60’s tomorrow, there’s no excuse! And the Boy Scouts will be collecting food for the needy during the parade, so make sure to bring a non-perishable food item too.

As a one-time participant in the Mummers Parade, I know the importance of these great events to Philadelphia. They’re part of our identity and a wonderful opportunity to get together and celebrate as a community. To be truly thankful for what we have, and to strive for better days ahead. The parade route may be shorter, but the outpouring of goodwill and caring are just as big.

- Frank Sinatra