Giant Balloon Inflation Party Scheduled Ahead Of Parade Spectacular In Stamford

Information via Stamford Downtown

STAMFORD, CT — On the eve of the 29th annual Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular, those wishing for a behind-the-scenes look at how the parade’s 15 giant helium balloons come to life are invited to attend the Point72 Giant Balloon Inflation Party.

This pre-parade event, hosted by Point72 and taking place on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 3-6 p.m. at the intersection of Hoyt Street and Summer Street in downtown Stamford, will allow spectators an up-close-and-personal look at the balloons as they take to the sky in preparation for their flights above the streets of Stamford.

The party will offer music, clowns and cartoon characters, and a meet and greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus and Jingles the Elf.

Spectators will be treated to a special performance by the Acrobats of Cirque-Tacular Entertainment, who will provide thrilling tricks that they have planned for Sunday’s parade.

In addition, four different dance groups from Locust Performing Arts Center of Stamford will perform.

The parade will kick-off at 12 p.m. on Nov. 20 at the intersection of Summer Street at Hoyt Street and conclude on Atlantic Street. It's one of the largest of its kind in the country, with more than 100,000 spectators annually. The parade is produced by Stamford Downtown Special Services District.

This year’s planned parade highlights include 15 giant balloons with favorites such as Abby Cadabby, Bob the Builder, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Daniel Tiger, Elmo, Gingerbread Boy, Mr. Potato Head, Octonauts, Peppa Pig, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Scooby-Doo, Shrek and Snowman.

In addition to the procession's signature balloons, the streets will also be filled with floats, dance groups, and marching bands including the NYPD Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band, Mariachi Artistíco Mariachi Band, the Fairfield County Police Pipes and Drums and high school groups from Stamford, Westhill, Trumbull, Uniondale, and Brentwood.

Colin Cosell, the PA announcer for the New York Mets and New York Riptide, will be the parade’s Master of Ceremonies for the first time this year.