PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Our countdown to the 106th 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade continues and we are introducing you to the people behind the scenes who help create the magic on the parkway.
Co-producers John Best and Maria DiBenedetto say they are bringing the holiday magic.
“We’re the oldest Thanksgiving Day parade in the country,” says Best. “And it is a massive parade by the numbers. We have 600 volunteers. We have 14 larger than live helium balloons, 11 marching bands from all over the country, more than 1,000 singers and dancers, plus a record 37 musical performances.”
It’s the biggest show on the parkway and 6abc is covering it from every angle – on the ground and in the air.
And as always, there will be a star-studded lineup.
“We’re starting with an ‘American Idol’ reunion,” says creative producer, Chally Rowjohn. “We have Gabby Samone from this season. We have David Archuleta and we have season 6 winner, Jordin Sparks. They’re all singing holiday hits to help you feel the holiday magic spirit of the season.”
You’ll also see Motown music legends the Four Tops, Quad City DJ’s, Cameo and even Ensemble Arts Philly performances from Broadway’s best like “Beauty and the Beast.”
The parade is such a Philadelphia institution, bringing so much history and joy to the families that line the parade route each year.
“And we couldn’t be more proud to be stewards of this incredible tradition and legacy that Ellis Gimbel left us,” said DiBenedetto. “He understood the meaning of giving back to the community that you serve.”
The parade is a full 6abc production and our gift to the community. It truly takes a village!
“When I look down the parkway, and see thousands and thousands of people who showed up to watch this, it’s really a special moment and a great thing to say that you’re part of,” says John Morris, VP of Multiplatform Programming at 6abc.
You can watch all the holiday magic of the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade Thursday morning beginning at 8:30 a.m. on 6abc or wherever you stream.
For a full list of performers and all you need to know about the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade, CLICK HERE.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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