Shaggy Delivers ’90s Nostalgic Set at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Jamaican icon Shaggy joins Busta Rhymes, Lil Jon, Ciara and more, performing a medley of his hits as Manhattan transforms into one big party route for the 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Shaggy during his set at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (Photo: Getty Images)

The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade returned to Manhattan on Thursday with one of its most electric lineups yet, transforming the New York City route into a rolling concert stage powered by Broadway icons, global pop stars, legendary rappers, and viral performers.

Jamaican dancehall icon Shaggy joined the all-star cast alongside acts such as Busta Rhymes, Lil Jon, and Ciara. He delivered pure nostalgic ’90s vibes with a medley of timeless classics “Mr. Boombastic,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and “Angel,” representing Jamaican culture on a larger scale. Spectators packed along the route, including those waving and dancing from nearby balconies, moved in sync to the energy of his performance.

Busta Rhymes, clad in an all-white puffer ensemble, unleashed a rapid-fire set that included “Jump,” “Break Ya Neck,” “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See,” and more

The 99th annual parade featured a massive display of new and returning balloons, vibrant floats, and more than 30 musical performances. Thousands of spectators lined the 2.5-mile route from the Upper West Side to Midtown, taking in 34 balloons, 11 marching bands, and a festive production that defined the holiday spirit.

Shaggy is set to return to the Big Apple on December 12 for the “Jamaica Strong” Benefit Concert, a major fundraising event supporting Jamaica’s ongoing hurricane relief efforts.