Universal Orlando Resort’s Earl the Squirrel is scheduled to make his debut as a giant balloon in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 26, 2026.
The appearance will mark Universal Orlando’s first dedicated balloon in the New York City parade, according to Universal. Earl is set to appear with a parade unit that includes dancers, balloon handlers and a dancing acorn. The announced lineup also includes Bluey and Sorcerer Mickey.
Earl’s balloon is then expected to head to Universal Studios Florida for Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s. The resort’s seasonal parade runs from Nov. 14, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, but Earl will not be part of the early dates because of his Thanksgiving Day Parade commitment. His Universal Studios Florida appearances will begin after Nov. 26.
The character grew from a holiday tradition at Universal Studios Florida. Universal employees found that a real squirrel had been chewing electrical wires on the park’s Christmas tree; after the animal was humanely relocated, team members began hiding a squirrel decoration in the tree for guests to spot. Earl became an official costumed character in 2021 and later received themed merchandise.
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Universal Studios Florida has featured Macy’s balloons in its own holiday parade for years. Earl’s arrival adds a new balloon to that event after his New York debut, giving visitors planning late-November and December trips a new addition to watch for.
