Freida the Dachshund is a classic novelty balloon from the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
History with the Macy's Parade
The Dachshund (1949)
Freida first appeared in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1949, under the name, "The Dachshund". This balloon only made three appearances and was retired in 1951.
Dachshund (1953)
In 1953, a new Dachshund balloon appeared and was recycled from the previous Dachshund balloon from 1949. The balloon also made 3 appearances and was retired in 1955.
Freida the Dachshund (2003)
In 2003, a recreation of the Dachshund, now officially named "Freida" debuted in the Macy's Parade, in order to promote that year's run of Macy's Holiday Parade at Universal Orlando Resort. This balloon would continue to appear until 2005, where she was retired. Despite her retirement from the main Parade, she would still make appearances in Macy's Holiday Parade until 2007 and even made two brief appearances in 2009 and 2011. She also made appearances at the 2006 and 2007 Flower Shows. However, Freida was ultimately retired after the 2011 Parade and has not made another public appearance since.
Defect
- In 1950, the Dachshund's ears were deflated.