Joe Cool, Bluey among new attractions at Balloonfest ahead of 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Seven new character balloons took flight at Balloonfest in New Jersey ahead of the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The additions include Joe Cool, Snoopy’s sunglasses-wearing alter ego, and Bluey, joining more than 100 inflatables in the centennial parade.

The new balloons also feature a cowboy Minion, Hello Kitty holding a red apple, Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey, Macy’s character Billie Brightpaw and Underdog, returning after last appearing in 1984. Bluey’s balloon is 47.2 feet tall, while Joe Cool’s is 41.6 feet tall; as many as 100 handlers may guide a single balloon. The 2.5-mile parade was founded in 1924 and first featured character balloons in 1927.