Security is heavy in New York City, with a record number of police officers stationed along the route of the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
More than 2,500 officers are assigned to the event. They are protecting crowds of onlookers are lining the parade route, which starts on the Upper West Side and ends in front of Macy's flagship store on 34th Street. Officials estimate 3 million people will be in attendance.
Photos from the area show officers perched atop buildings near the route. Others, some heavily armed or holding the leash of police dogs, are on the street with the crowds.
"I think people are coming here from all over the city, all over the metropolitan region, all over the country to be a part of this parade," Mayor Bill de Blasio said during a news conference Wednesday night. "We cannot let the terrorists succeed at psychological warfare. ... They're doing what they do to try and create fear, to try and change us."
The parade is in its 89th year. This year's balloons include Hello Kitty, Snoopy and Paddington. The performers are expected to include Jordin Sparks, Shawn Mendes and Pat Benatar.
PHOTOS: Images from the inflation of the balloons
Mayor de Blasio says the parade kicks off a season of appreciation. He says New York residents must remain vigilant, but not fearful, after the attacks in Paris.
Officials have said there are no known, credible threats against New York.
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