The Early Bird was a character that appeared in the form of a giant helium character balloon in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
History with the Macy's Parade[]
In 1928, Macy's Parade's soon-to-be signature inflatable icons first graced the skies in New York City. Among these new creations was a 50-foot balloon in the likeness of a real Bird.
Like many of its rubber-necked brethren, the balloon was released into the skies of New York City, and was returned to Macy's for a cash prize not long after. She was retired from the Parade after its inaugural appearance and was disposed quickly after.
Trivia[]
- Unbeknownst to many, the Early Bird was the first female balloon in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade history. Originally thought to be genderless, the balloon's identity was confirmed in a 1928 newspaper ad.
- The Early Bird was also the first balloon to be featured on an advertisement for the parade.