The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2012 is to be aired live on NBC today and is expected to draw millions to view celebrities and colorful floats through New York City. The parade can be watched online through a live streaming feed (details provided below).

The Macy's New York Parade is an annual tradition loved by millions across America, and on Thursday it is expected that as many as 25 million people will watch the parade. The parade will take a new route this year and will feature more than 8,000 participating in marching bands, riding atop floats, and in numerous performance groups.

Among musical performers expected this year include Cody Simpson and Carly Rae Jepsen, Manheim Steamroller, Jennette McCurdy, Colbie Caillat and Chris Isaak. Miss USA Olivia Culpo and several 2012 Olympic Gold Medalists will also be featured in the parade.

The famous balloons and floats this year will include Hello Kitty, Kermit the Frog, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Spongebob Squarepants, Julius, Spider-Man, Kung Fu Panda, Ronald McDonald, the Pillsbury Doughboy, Pikachu, Buzz Lightyear, Sailor Mickey Mouse and Sonic the Hedgehog.

The parade will begin at 9 a.m. EST and continue until it reaches the end of its route around 12 p.m. EST. It will air live on both CBS and NBC.

The new route this year will start at 77th Street and Central Park West and ending at Macy's in Herald Square (34st). A map of the route is available on Macy's official website.

A live stream of the parade is available and can be viewed here.

An EarthCam Link with views of New York City can also be viewed by clicking here.