Dreamworks Animation’s ‘Kung Fu Panda’ Po, Returns to Macy’s Parade

This Thanksgiving, and for the first time in more than a decade, Po, the star of DreamWorks Animation’s Kung Fu Panda films, will be in the 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Thursday, Nov. 23. This year, Po will wear a new outfit, have a new outlook and celebrate a new movie. This year will mark Po’s fourth appearance in the Parade after flying in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

To celebrate next year’s release of “Kung Fu Panda 4,” DreamWorks Animation’s new chapter in the franchise, Po will fly over the streets of New York City on Thanksgiving Day. The balloon, constructed from over 1,000 yards of fabric and measuring 49 feet long, 36 feet wide and 39 feet tall, features Po executing a flying side kick while dressed in his Dragon Warrior costume from the new film, including a new hat and a new cape. 

Inspired by traditional martial arts and set in ancient China, Kung Fu Panda tells the epic tale of wide-eyed Po (Jack Black), a panda whose love of kung fu is matched only by an insatiable appetite. The Academy Award-nominated 2008 inaugural chapter became DreamWorks’ highest-grossing original animated film at the time. It launched a trilogy that has earned more than $1.8 billion at the global box office.

From toys, video games and digital expansions to holiday specials, Emmy Award-winning television series and global theme-park attractions, the legend of Po has delighted audiences of all ages around the world. “Kung Fu Panda 4” will mark the first time Po has returned to movie screens since 2016.

“Po loves to get right into the action, and he loves to get some hang time with his fans, so we’re thrilled to announce his return to the legendary Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” says Margie Cohn, president, DreamWorks Animation. “The Parade is a blast of pure joy for families around the country and the world each year, and we’re honored and grateful for Po to be a part of the celebration again this year.”

“We have eagerly awaited Po’s return to the streets of New York City and are thrilled that 2023 is the year the legendary Dragon Warrior will return to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” says Jordan Dabby, producer, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “Live spectators and viewers across the country will be inspired and entertained by Po and his signature kung-fu moves this November.”

The 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will air nationwide in the U.S. on NBC and stream on Peacock on Thursday, Nov. 23. “Kung Fu Panda 4” arrives in theaters March 8.