Heavy security at Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in Manhattan

Giant balloons took to the clear, sunny sky over midtown Manhattan for the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, with spectators lining up along the parade route and a heavy police presence keeping a watchful eye.

The parade, now in its 89th year, included marching bands and floats to go along with Hello Kitty, Snoopy, Paddington, and other giant balloons.

City officials have said while there was no known, credible threats against New York following the recent attacks in Paris and a video purportedly produced by the Islamic State group that contained video clips of Times Square, 2,500 officers were stationed along the parade route for the Thanksgiving Day festivities, the largest number of officers the department has ever assigned to the event.

As the parade made its way through Manhattan, helicopters flew overhead and officers stood on top of mobile command centre vans to watch the crowds.

Pamela and Tom Popp of Ridgefield, New Jersey said they’ve come to the city every year for the parade for at least 20 years.

“It’s just a very special part of our holiday,” Pamela said.

“We’re very proud of New York City and this wonderful tradition.”

Her husband said the security persence was heavier than in past years.

“I see the cops on top of Radio City,” he said. “Never saw that before.”

Kim Miller, of Boston, also said she noticed the heavy security.

“It’s a little scary but at least it’s keeping us safe. We’re having fun.”

Mayor Bill de Blasio said: “We cannot let the terrorists succeed at psychological warfare... They’re doing what they do to try and create fear, to try and change us.”