While the most common Thanksgiving Day tradition is undoubtedly enjoying a large turkey dinner with the family, one of the more famous traditions for the day is the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.  

The annual event, now celebrating its 89th year, will be taking place once again with tons of live entertainment, wonderful floats and countless balloons flying through the sky on Thanksgiving Morning. And there is a reason this long-standing tradition is a favorite for New Yorkers who can attend the event live, as well as those around the country who gather around their televisions Thanksgiving Morning to watch it. 

Here are our five reasons we love the parade-and why we're excited for the 2015 celebration of all things Thanksgiving.  

It's a Tradition 

 

The parade has been a New York tradition since 1926, and traditions stick around for a reason. It's also a nice way for families to enjoy their time together even more before sitting down for dinner.  

The Celebrity Lineups Can Be Impressive 


(Photo Credit: Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Lindt)

In addition to the talent that shows up for the show, other celebs have occasionally made surprise appearances at the parade over the years to talk to commentators, or to even take in the festivities for themselves. 

The Floats and Balloons Add A Festive Flair 


(Photo Credit: Theo Wargo/Getty Image)

Not only are there always new ones to look forward to each year, but nothing says parade more than balloons and floats.  

The Musical Performances Can Be Top Notch 


(Photo Credit: Theo Wargo/Getty IMages)

The lineup of musical performances can be pretty impressive. This year's lineup includes performances by Jordin Sparks, Train, Trey Songz, Andra Day, Shawn Mendes, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Questlove, Mipso, Prince Royce, Rachel Platten, Miss America 2016 Betty Cantrell, Mariah Carey, Sofia Carson and Dove Cameron, Andy Grammer, Mercyme, Jennifer Nettles, Jake Owen, Panic! At The Disco, Plain White T's, and Daughtry. In addition, the cast of Broadway's School of Rock is also performing, along with marching bands and dance groups.  

It Helps Usher In The Next Big Holiday  


(Photo Credit: Andrew Burton/Getty Images)

The parade ends every year with a special visit from Santa Claus, which certainly gets everyone ready and prepped for the next big holidays of the season. It's not called the most wonderful time of the year for no reason.  

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 9 a.m. Thanksgiving Morning. It airs live on NBC.