SeaWorld is a United States chain of marine mammal parks, oceanariums, animal theme parks, and rehabilitation centers owned by SeaWorld Entertainment.
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, in which a separate article for this balloon can be read here. The float continued to be used until 1988, when it was retired alongside the Baby Shamu balloon.
SeaWorld made its grand return a brand-new float in 2013 to celebrate their 50th anniversary. From sea turtles, penguins and angel fish 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 after the 2014 parade, due to several conflicts with PETA. It is unlikely it will ever return because of that. Despite this, the escorts from the float continue to be used as part of the Silly Seaside Clowns as of 2018.
Performers
Below, you will find all of the celebrities/performers that appeared on the float
- 2013: Tituss Burgess & Beverley Staunton
- 2014: Julie Scardina & Pedro Ramos-Navarrete