Alaska’s Wonders Shine Bright At Macy’s Parade

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Debut and Design of the Alaska-Themed Float: The float marked Holland America Line’s first appearance in the Parade and featured the largest kinetic sculpture in the event’s history.
  • Jewel’s Performance and Alaskan Heritage: Alaska native singer-songwriter Jewel performed her hit song “You Were Meant For Me” from the float.
  • The Global Fresh Fish Program and Sustainability: The float highlighted the line’s program to source and serve Certified Seafood International-certified, sustainable Alaskan fish fresh from port to plate.
  • Holland America Line’s Long Legacy and Cruisetour Offerings: The cruise line has been exploring Alaska for nearly 80 years and is the only one to include the Yukon territory in its Cruisetour overland packages.

Holland America Line made an impressive and successful debut at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with their magnificent Alaska-themed float, which quickly became a highlight of the holiday event. This remarkable spectacle, titled “Alaska’s Great Land,” successfully transported the audience to the wonders of The Great Land right in the heart of New York City. The float stood out as the largest kinetic sculpture in the Parade’s history, skillfully bringing to life Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers, majestic wildlife, and stunning scenery. This dynamic design perfectly encapsulated the signature experiences guests enjoy on a Holland America Line cruise and overland tour.

First-time float wows as glaciers, wildlife and scenery come to life with the largest kinetic sculpture in Parade history

Adding to the excitement, Alaska native and multi-platinum singer-songwriter Jewel performed her iconic hit “You Were Meant For Me” from the float as it passed the Macy’s Herald Square flagship. The performance was a fitting tribute, celebrating the destination that is central to the cruise line’s identity. Kacy Cole, Holland America Line’s chief marketing officer, expressed gratitude for joining the iconic tradition and sharing the awe of Alaska, a destination the company has explored with guests for nearly 80 years.

The design featured a depiction of the Holland America Line Denali Lodge and North America’s tallest mountain, appearing to glide through a rhythmic ocean setting. Sculpted animals like bears, moose, eagles, and wolves added authentic detail. The float also championed the line’s innovative Global Fresh Fish Program, which proudly serves sustainable, locally sourced Alaskan fish within 48 hours of being caught, a commitment confirmed by their Certified Seafood International certification. With six ships scheduled to explore the region in the 2026 season and unique Cruisetours that include the Yukon, Holland America Line continues its legacy of celebrating Alaska, a tradition that began even before it achieved statehood. The float was a wonderful representation of their dedication to extraordinary travel experiences.