Holland America to Showcase Alaska in Macy’s Parade with Jewel’s Heartfelt Performance: What You Need To Know

Published on November 5, 2025

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025 is bound to be a memorable event for visitors, a mix of music, art, and the stunning beauty of Alaska. Holland America Line, this year, will present the parade with its first-ever float, which will be designed as an eye-catching Alaska-themed one. The float will represent the wilderness and impressiveness of Alaska, bringing them right into the middle of Manhattan and along with the celebration of the beautiful, wild and spirited Alaska. Moreover, this fiesta will get more delightful as it will witness a performance from the Grammy-nominated singer and actress Jewel, who will be the one and only artist to sing during the parade in order to pay tribute to her Alaskan roots.

Jewel’s performance, atop the float, promises to captivate millions of viewers from around the world. Her heartfelt tribute to the place she calls home, Alaska, will resonate deeply with both locals and visitors alike. With an innate connection to Alaska, Jewel’s appearance adds a personal touch to the celebration, aligning with Holland America Line’s deep commitment to showcasing the Great Land’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Holland America’s First Float at the Parade

This year marks a significant milestone for Holland America Line, a cruise company renowned for its decades of exploration in Alaska. The float will make its debut at the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking the company’s first participation in this prestigious event. The float will be a visual marvel, designed to encapsulate the grandeur of Alaska. Featuring kinetic elements that evoke the power of glaciers, the wildlife of the region, and the towering beauty of Denali National Park, the float promises to be a standout attraction along the parade route.

Travellers watching the parade will be transported from the streets of Manhattan to the remote and scenic wilderness of Alaska. The float’s design will bring to life the essence of the Alaskan landscape, making it a perfect fit for Holland America’s decades-long dedication to Alaska’s culture and environment. The company has been instrumental in promoting sustainable travel to Alaska, ensuring that its visitors experience the destination’s natural beauty while supporting local communities and wildlife conservation efforts.

A Visual and Musical Tribute to Alaska

The float will not only showcase Alaska’s spectacular landscape but also highlight Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Program. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and preserving Alaska’s resources. The Global Fresh Fish Program ensures that all seafood served onboard is sustainably sourced, further enhancing the connection between Holland America and Alaska’s vast natural bounty.

At the heart of this celebration is Jewel, who will perform on the float, bringing the spirit of Alaska to life for the world to see. The performance promises to be an unforgettable moment in the parade, as Jewel’s melodies capture the magic of Alaska. From the pristine wilderness to the rugged mountains, her music embodies the wonder and adventure that define the 49th state. Her personal connection to Alaska will add an emotional layer to the celebration, making it even more meaningful for travellers and viewers across the globe.

Broadcast and Parade Highlights

For those unable to attend the parade in person, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will air live on NBC and stream on Peacock from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM (all time zones) on Thursday, November 27, 2025. The parade will feature an impressive array of floats, including the Holland America Line float and performances from various celebrities. This year’s parade is set to be one of the most vibrant yet, with a focus on bringing the world’s most stunning destinations and cultures into living rooms across the country.

Holland America’s participation in this historic event also marks a growing trend of travel companies using such global platforms to share the wonders of their destinations. For travellers planning a visit to Alaska, this float serves as a reminder of the vast opportunities to explore this untamed, scenic destination, whether through cruises, guided tours, or outdoor adventures.

A Perfect Blend of Music and Wilderness

Holland America Line and Jewel will bring Alaska’s magic directly to millions of parade viewers this Thanksgiving, with a performance that highlights the state’s natural beauty, wildlife, and unique culture. The float’s kinetic design and Jewel’s performance promise to be a standout in the 99th edition of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. For anyone with plans to visit Alaska, this parade will serve as a visual reminder of the wonders waiting to be discovered. As the world celebrates the holiday season, Holland America Line’s Alaska-themed float will inspire travellers to connect with the spirit of adventure and exploration that defines Alaska.