News & Press

Be sure to check out the local dancers during the famous Thanksgiving parade airing Thursday morning.
By Priscila Korb, Patch Staff | Nov 19, 2018 3:17 pm ET | Patch.com

SMITHTOWN, NY – Local dance professionals Kurt Roberts and Anneliece Velasco from Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Smithtown will perform at the 2018 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The parade will air on NBC this Thursday, Nov. 22 starting at 9 a.m.

The two locals will join ballroom dance pros from around the nation to perform a few quick steps as they walk, then perform a routine in front of Macy’s Herald Square.

In addition, Kimberly Parker and Eugene Bubyr will be representing the local dance studio as walkers along side the dancers.

“Kurt and I are incredibly excited to be part of such an amazing event,” Velasco, owner of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio said. “Fred Astaire Dance Studios began in New York City more than 70 years ago, so getting to perform in the city where it all began is really exciting!”

Over 3.5 million spectators in New York City and more than 50 million television viewers nationwide are expected to watch the parade this holiday.

Since November of 1924, it has enthralled the nation and become synonymous with the start of the holiday season.

The 92nd edition will feature 16 giant character balloons; 43 novelty balloons, heritage balloons, balloonicles, balloonheads and trycaloons; 26 floats; 1,200 cheerleaders and dancers; more than 1,000 clowns; and 12 marching bands.