With its elaborate floats and performances, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition. But how does this tradition actually come about?

For the third year in a row, the “Countdown to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade” special gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this legendary event.

Get details on the hour-long special — including an exclusive reveal from the host — below.

How to Watch “Countdown to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”

The TV special will air live on Wednesday, November 27th, the evening before Thanksgiving, at 8pm ET/PT on both NBC and Peacock.

Who hosts the TV special?

TODAY.com can exclusively reveal that Wendi McLendon-Covey has taken over as host of the hour-long special.

McLendon-Covey, best known for her roles in “Bridesmaids” and “The Goldbergs,” is currently starring in the new NBC comedy series “St. Denis Medical.”

What to expect during the “Countdown to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”

During the “Countdown to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade” special, McLendon-Covey will appear at the parade starting line at 77th Street and Central Park West.

Featuring a mix of live guests and pre-recorded segments, the special showcases the work that goes into organizing the event, including making floats and costumes.

Additionally, members of the Rockettes will provide viewers with a glimpse into the rehearsal process for their annual appearance in the parade.

Other guests include stars of the Broadway show “The Outsiders,” who will appear in the parade.

To conclude the special, McLendon-Covey will unveil a new balloon that will debut at the November 28th event.

What to know about the 2024 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The 2024 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will air on NBC and Peacock on November 28 from 8:30 a.m. to noon in all time zones, followed by an encore presentation at 2 p.m. ET/PT.

TODAY Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb will return as hosts. The simulcast on Telemundo will be hosted by Carlos Adyan and Andrea Meza.

The parade is star-studded, including performances by the following artists:

• Bishop Briggs
• Kylie Cantrall
• Chloe
• Dan + Shay
• Dasha
• Jimmy Fallon & The Roots
• Coco Jones
• Walker Hayes
• Ariana Madix
• Joey McIntyre
• Idina Menzel
• Natty Natasha
• T-Pain
• Rachel Platten
• Leah Salonga
• The temptations
• The war and the treaty
• Alex Warren
• Sebastian Yatra
• Charli D'Amelio
• Tilers Peck and Roman Mejia