Everett Elementary’s first graders took learning to new heights this week as they hosted their very own spin on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Students designed and decorated balloons to resemble animals, book characters, superheroes, and more, then proudly paraded around the gym for an audience of Pre-K and kindergarten students.
The festive event was inspired by the children’s book Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet. The book tells the true story of Tony Sarg, the puppeteer and inventor behind the iconic Macy’s parade balloons. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, students learn how creativity, problem-solving, and imagination helped bring the famous giant balloon puppets to life—sparking their own ideas for this hands-on project.
With bright colors, big smiles, and balloon creations floating beside them, first graders celebrated the season with creativity and joy while giving younger students a parade experience they won’t soon forget.
