Balloon Handlers Wanted: Your Moment Has Finally Arrived

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce is looking for giant balloon handlers to lend their hands for the 57th Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 20.

If you've ever wanted to hold a giant balloon, this is your moment to shine as a grateful city looks on in adoration. For those not yet ready to take on the "lofty" job of giant balloon handler, parade organizers are also looking for banner holders and other volunteers.

The New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce and the City of New Rochelle announced last month that the popular annual tradition would return this year after a pandemic-forced hiatus. The fun will kick off the Saturday before Thanksgiving at 10 a.m. (though volunteers will be starting their day a bit earlier).

Organizers said this year's parade theme "Thankful for Essential Workers" will be a salute to those who stood on the frontlines throughout the pandemic to serve and protect the city of New Rochelle and its residents. Those honored will include healthcare workers, first responders, DPW crews, grocery store clerks, transportation providers, teachers and community volunteers among others.

There is also still time for performers to register to participate in the parade.

Call 914-632-5700 or visit the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce website for information about volunteer opportunities, registration for performers and sponsorship availability.

An earlier version of this article incorrectly referred to Nov. 20 as the Saturday after Thanksgiving. A correction was made to indicate that the date of the parade is the Saturday before Thanksgiving.