The 27th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was held on November 26, 1953, in New York City, and was shown to viewers live on NBC that same day from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. EST. It was hosted by Merrill Mueller and Dave Garroway. The lineup featured 6 giant character balloons, 11 floats, clowns, marching bands, a host of guest stars, and the one-and-only Santa Claus.