Thanksgiving Day parade preps

November 24, 2009 (WPVI) -- Things are constantly moving behind the scenes to keep the parade on course for Thursday.

The parade office at 6abc studios in Wynnefield Heights is abuzz with preparations in these days leading up to the annual Thanksgiving Day parade.

It's time to make sure every detail is in place for the 90th year of the nation's oldest Thanksgiving Day parade.

Parade producer, Todd Marcocci, showed us staging charts of how he designed the finale, opening production number and the special Ikea production number.

Among the headliners performing in this year are singers Kimberly Caldwell, Jason DeRula, Sheila E, String duo 'Nuttin But Strings', and local singing sensation Bianca Ryan.

The parade features a dozen floats, marching bands from across the nation and giant helium balloons.

The hometown tradition seen across the country is fueled by 7,000 volunteers, marchers, and performers.

Volunteers from the local electricians' union carpeted the Art Museum steps Tuesday with holiday colors that will provide the background to performances there.

"Volunteers are vital. There is no way we could do this event without them," said parade producer Amy Walp.

Technical crews set up camera equipment to broadcast the parade that is a family affair of the heart.

People on the parade team like Brenda Goldsmith, have one mission in mind.

"That I'm able to give the same joy that I received as a child."

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philadelphia, pennsylvania, thanksgiving parade, thanksgiving, local/state, denise james

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