The Macy's 2012 Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition loved by many around the world.

On Thursday, Nov. 25 millions of people will tune in to watch the parade, which will walk a new route in New York City. Over 8,000 people will participate in marching bands, riding atop floats, and in various performance groups. 

The musical performers scheduled to sing on board floats this year include Cody Simpson and Carly Rae Jepsen, as well as Manheim Steamroller, Jennette McCurdy, Colbie Caillat and Chris Isaak. Several other famous stars will wave to millions of attendees standing watch along the route including Miss USA Olivia Culpo and several 2012 Olympic Gold Medalists.

The many eye-catching balloons and floats slated to hover over the crowd include a revamped Hello Kitty along with 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.

This year, it will begin on a new route starting 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.

Macy's also offers an official "Macy's Parade" app on the iTunes store for viewers who want updates on their mobile phones.

In the season of gift giving, the world's largest department store gave away 5,000 front row seats this year to families affected by Hurricane Sandy. Macy's also provided transportation to those affected to and from the event, according to CBS.

A live stream of the parade is available:

Watch the free livestream of the 2012 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade here

Tags: macys Thanksgiving Day Parade nbc CBS carly rae jepsen Cody Simpson