The Evolution of Thanksgiving Day Parades: From Must-See Events to Overproduced Spectacles
The Evolution of Thanksgiving Day Parades: From Must-See Events to Overproduced Spectacles
For many, Thanksgiving Day is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy a delicious meal, and perhaps turn to the comfort of television to watch festive parades. However, the traditional spirit of these events might be overshadowed by modern TV broadcasts that often feel overproduced and less authentic. This article explores the changing nature of Thanksgiving Day parades, how they have evolved over time, and why some people prefer to relive the experience in less commercialized ways.
From Must-See Events to Overproduced Spectacles
For a long time, Thanksgiving Day parades were considered cultural touchstones. They were events that captured the essence of the holiday, bringing communities together and offering a blend of entertainment, history, and local pride. However, with the rise of commercialization and the focus on ratings, these parades have transformed into heavily produced and packaged spectacles. People have started to question whether watching a parade on TV on Thanksgiving morning is worth the time and attention.
The Commercialization of Traditional Parades
One of the main critiques of modern Thanksgiving Day parades is their excessive commercialization. Networks like NBC have become notorious for their obnoxious, self-aggrandizing, and personality-centered coverage. This shift has led to a significant reduction in the actual parade-related content, with a disproportionate amount of screen time being dedicated to commercial ads and promotions. For instance, this year, between the top of the hour and ten minutes later, there was only one shot of the parade lasting about thirty seconds. The rest of the time was filled with ads and programming announcements.
The Case of Local Parades
Contrast this with local parades, such as the Rose Parade in Los Angeles, which provide a much more authentic and engaging viewing experience. Local parades often focus exclusively on the parade itself for the duration of the broadcast, without interspersing it with non-parade content or ads. This allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the parade and enjoy the performances and floats without interruption.
Turning to TraditionFor those who feel that the modern TV coverage is too distracting, there are alternatives. Watching a parade in its traditional setting can be a more fulfilling experience. If one is not working, it is common to turn on the parade while getting everything else ready for the holiday. This serves as a gentle reminder of the colorful floats, marching bands, and festive floats that make these parades so special. It also helps set the right mood for the celebration that is to follow.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to watch a parade on TV or in its traditional setting comes down to personal preference. Those who appreciate the authentic, unadulterated experience might prefer the local parades, while others might find the convenience of TV coverage more appealing. Regardless of the choice, the spirit of the holiday should be celebrated in a way that spreads joy and unity among families and communities.
Conclusion
The evolution of Thanksgiving Day parades from beloved community events to overproduced spectacles is a reflection of changing television trends and increasing commercialization. As viewers become more discerning, the value of local and traditional parades as opposed to heavily commercialized TV broadcasts is being reconsidered. Whether one chooses to watch the parade on local channels or experience it in its original form is ultimately a personal choice, but the value of preserving the authenticity of these cultural touchstones should not be overlooked.