http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macy's_Thanksgiving_Day_Parade
Did you know the parade started in 1924? The picture from the 30's is from the above site. Mickey sure has changed over the years, hasn't he? They have tons of information in the article including what year the assorted balloons went in new. Did you know the parade did not take place 1942-1944 because of WWII? For much more info please visit and read.
It linked to this page of really great old pictures of the balloons in the parade over the years. Well worth a visit.
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/galleries/entertainment/entertainment.html
