Thanksgiving parade returns to 'heart of downtown' Houston after absence due to COVID-19

The Thanksgiving Parade is returning to Houston this year.

It was cancelled last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"The holiday season is my favorite time of year and I am so excited to announce that Houston’s ICONIC 72nd @HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade is BACK!! I look forward to joining fellow #Houstonians on Thanksgiving morning in celebration," Mayor Sylester Turner tweeted.

The parade will cover 20 blocks and feature floats, marching bands and a performance by Cirque du Soleil to kick off its national tour, Houston Public Media reported.

It will begin at 9 a.m. on Nov. 25.

"Located in the heart of downtown Houston, this event is one of the oldest Thanksgiving Day parades in the country," the city said. "Each year, several hundred thousand Houstonians line the streets to cheer on participants. The parade will traverse over 20 city blocks and will feature elaborate floats, colorful marching bands, high-flying balloons and other uniquely Houston entries."

The parade's grand marshal will be Dr. Peter Hotez, professor of pediatrics and molecular virology at Baylor College of Medicine and co-director of the Texas Children’s Center for Vaccine Development and endowed chair in Tropical Pediatrics, the city said.

Volunteers are needed to handle balloons, carry banners and serve as parade marshals among other jobs. You can find more information here.