America's oldest Thanksgiving Day parade made its way through the streets of Philadelphia and down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway this morning. Families from around the region camped out early for the best spot to see all the marching bands, floats, and big balloons. WFMZ's Joscelyn Moes was there.  It's show time in Philadelphia. >> TJ: I love that Mickey Mouse. >> Reporter: America's first Thanksgiving Day parade made its way along the Ben Franklin Parkway this morning. >> It's a great parade. Best in the country. >> Reporter: Families from around the region bundled up. Some dressed up. >> I see you got the. Yeah. It's been around for about 10 years the only problem is the dogs have gotten a hold of it from time to time. >> Reporter: The parade, now in its 89th year, had been sponsored by Berks County-based Boscov's for years. But this year, IKEA stepped in. >> Every year rain, snow, sun, we're here. >> Reporter: The parade featured 19 marching bands, 15 floats, and 14 high-flying balloons For many families coming to the Thanksgiving Day parade in Philadelphia is as much of a tradition as turkey and pumpkin pie. >> Every single year for the last 20 years. >> This is like 31 years for me and my wife. And like she said this is our 2nd generation coming out. >> We've been coming here for 40 years. >> Reporter: And this year, he brought along about 40 family members. Pop singer Mario, American Idol finalist Justin Guarini, and celebrity chef Rachael Ray were also on hand to spread some holiday cheer. Everyone who was lined up along the streets... had a favorite part of the parade. >> The clowns. >> The bands. >> I like the air balloon. >> It's a good time for all family, friends, and then when we get home we can just enjoy our turkey and lay back and watch the game. >> Reporter: The Eagles cheerleaders swooped in to get the crowd excited about a different kind of bird on this Thanksgiving Day. And then the moment everyone was waiting for. Santa Claus, marking the start to Christmas season.

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