Thanksgiving is a few days away but New Rochelle held its 56th annual Thanksgiving Day Parade Saturday.

Organizers say this is the largest parade in New York, aside from the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Thousands of spectators lined up on North Avenue for the tradition. They say they enjoy the balloons and spending time with their family.

This year's grand marshal is the New York Empire, the state's pro ultimate team and only professional sports team to call New Rochelle home.

They led the parade's more than 1,000 participants, including 18 marching bands, performers and huge balloons. Santa Claus even made an appearance to signal the start of the holiday season.