NYC Thanksgiving - Thursday morning

On our one prior trip to NYC for Thanksgiving, it was as another wave of COVID hit and the city was still very sleepy.  There were hardly any yellow cabs or black suburbans as you wandered the streets.  That year we did see the balloon inflation (with masks on) and just wandered upon the parade en route to brunch.   This year we were actual spectators as our nephew, Jake, was marching with the Fishers High School Tiger Band.   So we wanted to be (close to) front and center to see our favorite trumpeter.   But, of course, we didn't want to be too crowded or get there too early!   We lucked out with unseasonably mild weather and a decent viewing spot near 57th along Sixth Avenue.    It was a bit crowded and under scaffolding (like most of the area between Midtown and Central Park) but overall a great spot to take in the parade!  

After the parade ended, we cut back up to Seventh Ave. to eat at the Brooklyn Diner, which is also where we ate in 2021.   We had a reservation that was timed perfectly (with a quick exit from the parade route), so we didn't have to wait to be seated.  We were happy to warm up a bit and fill up!  After filling up, we meandered back up through Midtown and watched the NFL on Fox broadcast for a few minutes.  Howie looks amazing in real life!  Jimmy is shorter than expected.  And Terry is ancient.   

I am so intrigued by the opening of the street lights in order to let the balloons and floats through.   I took several photos as we walked and watched them put them back in place. Empty streets without traffic lights is the weirdest Manhattan sight ever!