You Won't Believe What Happened at the 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade – Shocking Moments You Can't Miss!

This Thanksgiving Eve, Charlotte's beloved holiday tradition returned with a vibrant display of community spirit and festive cheer. The 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade, held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, kicked off at 5:30 PM, with a live broadcast on WCCB from 6 PM to 8 PM. This year, the parade transformed Tryon Street into a spectacle filled with marching bands, jubilant floats, and larger-than-life balloons, attracting an estimated 50,000 spectators eager to celebrate the holiday season.

The parade featured over 85 unique units, including 16 marching bands, 8 giant cold air balloons, and 12 festive floats. In addition, 46 specialty groups and 5 dynamic dance groups added to the entertainment, alongside live musical performances from local and national artists. Notable acts included Dani Kerr, Lisa Trinity, Rob Cole, Josh King, Jack Burns, and Maggie Baugh.

This year, the parade celebrated two co-grand marshals: Shana Templin, an Arts in Health Facilitator at Novant Health and a cancer survivor, and Morganne van Voorhis, an artist and educator at South Piedmont Community College. Templin's involvement in the arts stems from her personal experience with cancer treatment, which inspired her to support wellness through artistic expression. Van Voorhis is committed to fostering creativity within her community, recently showcased in the exhibition “A Slice of Life: The Art of Everyday,” featuring a poignant drawing inspired by her newborn son.

“We’re so pleased to have Shana Templin and Morganne van Voorhis represent Novant Health as co-grand marshals of this year’s Thanksgiving Eve Parade. They beautifully reflect the heart behind our Art of Remarkable Care initiative,” said Dr. Sid Fletcher, senior vice president and president of the greater Charlotte region for Novant Health. “This parade is such a cherished Charlotte tradition, and we’re honored to once again be part of a celebration that brings families together to share in gratitude and joy.”

In addition to the entertainment, the parade awarded a total of $3,500 in scholarships to two deserving students involved in marching bands, helping to further their music education beyond high school. With a dedicated team of over 1,000 volunteers working behind the scenes, the event promised new surprises this year, building on the excitement from previous parades.

The parade route began at 9th Street and concluded near Good Samaritan Way, with a special performance area set up at the Legacy Union and Ally Charlotte Center. Attendees were treated to various vendors offering warm beverages and festive foods, enhancing the holiday spirit throughout the evening. The celebration was expected to wrap up by 8 PM, allowing visitors to explore additional Uptown attractions, including Truist Field’s “Light the Knights” event and local dining options.

This event would not have been possible without the support of its sponsors, including Novant Health as the title sponsor and WCCB as the broadcast partner, along with presenting sponsors such as Food Lion Feeds, Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, Howard Hanna Allen Tate Realty, James River Equipment, Sonic Automotive, Piedmont Natural Gas, and Autobell Car Wash.

For those who missed the live experience, the parade was available for viewing in its entirety in the video player on WCCB Charlotte's platforms, with encore presentations scheduled for Thanksgiving Day at 5 AM, 7 AM, and 8 PM. The Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade continues to stand as a true celebration of community, creativity, and the spirit of the season.