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The Central Elementary Kearney Community Learning Center program hosted their own Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)

Central Elementary KCLC students host mini Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

By Brian Neben Nov 21, 2023 | 3:39 PM

KEARNEY — In a twist on the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Central Elementary Kearney Community Learning Center program hosted their own version of the event on Tuesday, Nov. 21.

“Central Elementary KCLC students have been learning about this iconic event and its rich history, culminating in a special parade within the school halls,” according to a press release from Kearney Public Schools (KPS).

Each of the 51 KCLC students created their own uniquely designed (handheld) balloon after learning about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and reading the book, “Balloon Over Broadway.

The student-made balloons, all carried on sticks by their “balloon handlers,” were paraded through the halls with fellow students and staff lining the hallways and cheering on the parade.

The KCLC provides academic-based programs at Bryant, Central, Emerson, Kenwood, Park, Buffalo Hills, Meadowlark, Northeast, and Windy Hills elementary schools after school, according to KPS.

KCLC provides a variety of clubs, academic programs, homework help, enrichment activities, recreation activities and field trips.

A summer program is also offered for elementary and middle school students who are enrolled in the school year KCLC Program.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has taken place in New York City since 1924, tying it for the second-oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country.

The three-hour parade is held in Manhattan, ending outside Macy’s Herald Square. It has been televised nationally on NBC since 1953.

The famous balloons were introduced in 1927.