Balloons, Music, CELEBRATE!

On Thanksgiving Day in New York City, a one of a kind celebration marches down Central Park West to Herald Square.  This Thanksgiving will mark my third year as a balloon handler…a new tradition has begun for my family.  But how long has this event been going on?  What was it like in the beginning?  Read on….

Balloons, Music, CELEBRATE!*

In 1924 the first holiday parade was organized by Macy’s Employees.  Animals were featured from the Central Park Zoo.  The crowds loved it and a tradition was born!

In 1927 the first helium-filled balloons were included in the parade.  They were released as part of the grand finale, but unexpectedly burst over the city.

The following year the balloons were redesigned.  A return address was included on each balloon in case it floated away and a reward was given to those that returned it to the store.

Rain or shine, the Thanksgiving Day Parade marches from 77th Street and Central Park West to Herald Square.

*information found at www.macys.com

 

Until next time.

Teresa, 51art

adventure is life, live it! ®

51st and Broadway

As a NYC photographer finding unique moments, unique opportunities to document black and white landscapes of the city is an ongoing challenge.  Over the next 25 entries, I will share with you images partnered with interesting pieces of new york city history.  Let the stories unfold…..

Dreams can come true!

Al Jolson lived “The American Dream.”  Born in Lithuania, Jolson rose through the ranks of vaudeville as a comedian and a blackface “Mammy” singer.  By 1920, he had become the biggest star on Broadway.

Jolson was born Asa Yoelson in Seredzius, Lithuania, sometime between 1883 and 1886 and was the first openly Jewish man to become an entertainment star in America.

Al Jolson was to jazz, blues, and ragtime what Elvis Presley was to rock ‘n’ roll.  He paved the way for African-American performers like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller, and Ethel Waters.

*information found at http://www.pbs.org/wnet/broadway/stars/jolson_a

Until next time.

Teresa, 51art

adventure is life, live it! ®