SeaWorld is a United States theme park chain headquartered out of Orlando, Florida. It is a proprietor of marine mammal parks, oceanariums, animal theme parks, and rehabilitation centers owned by United Parks & Resorts (formerly SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment). The SeaWorld parks feature killer whale, sea lion, and dolphin shows and zoological displays featuring various other marine animals. There are operations located within the United States in Orlando, Florida; San Diego, California; San Antonio, Texas; later outside the United States such as Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; and previously Aurora, Ohio. On March 5, 2007, SeaWorld Orlando announced addition of the Aquatica water park to its adventure park, which already includes SeaWorld and Discovery Cove.
History with the Macy's Parade[]
Undersea Fantasy (1986)[]
SeaWorld was first represented in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1986 with a brand-new float. A balloon of the Baby Shamu orca also debuted that year, for which a separate article can be read here. The float retired after 1986.
Positively Penguin (1987)[]
In 1987, SeaWorld sponsored a new float for that years parade, going for a more winter feel, as it featured a bunch of penguins. The float made it's final appearance in 1988, before it was retired.
A Sea of Surprises (2013)[]
SeaWorld made its grand return a brand-new float in 2013 to celebrate its 50th anniversary. From sea turtles, penguins and angelfish to sharks and breaching whales, amazing sea sculptures abound on the new float. Featuring rolling ocean waves, the gentle movement of swaying kelp and a vibrant school of tropical fish, the scene takes spectators on an extraordinary undersea journey. Taking center stage on the “A Sea of Surprises” float is the iconic Shamu, breaching 27-feet above the millions of Parade spectators lining the streets of Manhattan. This float only made two appearances, and was retired shortly after the 2014 Parade, due to several conflicts with it and PETA. Despite this, the escorts from the float continue to be used as part of the Silly Seaside Clowns as of 2018.
Guest Stars[]
Below, you will find all of the celebrities/performers that appeared on the float
Undersea Fantasy[]
- 1986 - Rex Smith performed "Let's Share The Joy"
Positively Penguin[]
- 1987 - Judy Kaye, sang "Doin' the Penguin Hop"
SeaWorld on Broadway[]
- 1988 - Susan Ruttan
A Sea of Surprises[]
- 2013 - Tituss Burgess & Beverley Staunton with the Manhattan Youth Ballet, sang "One Song"
- 2014 - Julie Scardina & Pedro Ramos-Navarrete