Hello Kitty is coming back to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with a giant red apple in her arms. And if that new look is already winning you over, there’s a $16.99 plush bag charm with a little apple of its own.
The new balloon is part of the 100th parade celebration. Sanrio says the apple is a nod to New York City, and Macy’s official design preview shows Hello Kitty in her blue overalls, yellow shirt, and red bow.
There’s also a 23-piece Hello Kitty and Friends collection with clothing, accessories, and home goods. It launched online October 13, with the Macy’s Herald Square launch announced for October 15. That gives fans something to shop well before Thanksgiving morning.
The charm, ornament set, and Loungefly backpack
The Kidrobot plush bag charm is the lowest-priced of these three picks at $16.99. It’s about 4 inches tall, has an O-ring clip for attaching to a tote or backpack, and puts Hello Kitty in the same apple-holding look as the balloon. A tiny parade moment for a bag you already own.
For the holiday decorating crowd, the Blue Sky ornament set is $29.99 for two: Hello Kitty and Tom Turkey. Both ceramic ornaments have Macy’s star balloon details and a glossy, hand-painted finish. The turkey-and-kitty pairing makes this one especially fun for anyone who treats watching the parade as part of the holiday.
The Loungefly mini backpack is the bigger purchase at $90. It’s faux leather with Hello Kitty appliqué, embroidery, adjustable straps, a front zip pocket, and two side slip pockets. Macy’s lists it at 9 inches wide, 10.5 inches tall, and 6.5 inches deep, so check those measurements if you’re picturing a full-size backpack.
Those are the listed prices as of October 15. Macy’s currently lists all three as preorders, so check the expected ship date before ordering. You can browse more of the merchandise in Macy’s parade shop.
Hello Kitty’s new balloon is scheduled to join the parade on Thursday, November 26, 2026. The announced broadcast starts at 8:30 a.m. in all time zones on NBC and Peacock.
