Macy’s is wasting no time celebrating 2026 as the centennial year of its Thanksgiving Day parade and 50th anniversary of its Fourth of July fireworks.
On Friday, the retailer kicked off a yearlong anniversary initiative, “Celebrations Start at Macy’s,” that is designed to bring its customers along for the ride by encouraging them to celebrate the big events in their lives as well as others such as prom, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
The initiative will include in-store and online events as well as immersive experiences from key brands. It will start with a prom-focused initiative where actress Priah Ferguson alongside creators PresLee Faith and Jackson Harvey will select their favorite styles for prom night.
“Prom was one of those unforgettable and defining moments. It’s a beautiful bridge between who I was and who I was becoming,” said Ferguson. “Macy’s played such a meaningful role in my journey, and now I get to see that same magic through my younger sister. I’m proud to … [curate] a collection designed to make you feel ethereal, celebrated and seen — a night where everyone deserves to feel like a star.”
“We’ve had so much fun curating looks that complement each other alongside Macy’s,” added Faith and Harvey. “Prom is all about expressing yourself, and we’re excited to share our favorite selections with our followers to get them ready for the big night.”
On March 7, the three will appear at an in-store event at Macy’s Herald Square, where they will meet with customers to help select, and personalize, their prom looks. Outside of New York, at some 200 Macy’s stores nationwide, customers will be invited to take advantage of personal styling, live beauty demos, DJs, customization bars, gift bags and other events.
And between Sunday and April 30, Macy’s will offer a roundup and online donation campaign benefiting the Macy’s Prom Fund, which supports organizations including Child Mind Institute, Becca’s Closet, Operation Prom and Altadena Girls.
Other components of the program will include “Celebration Saturdays” where stores will host events intended to inspire customers while they shop. And starting in May — 50 days out from the Fourth of July fireworks — Macy’s will offer customers surprises online and in stores as well as an opportunity to attend the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Customers will also be invited to participate in the parade by customizing confetti that will be used that day.
The retailer will promote “Celebrations Start at Macy’s” through television commercials and other mediums.
“Macy’s has always been at the center of big and small moments and where people come together to celebrate life’s milestones” said Sharon Otterman, Macy’s chief marketing officer. “With ‘Celebrations Start at Macy’s,’ we’re turning retail into experience, bringing emotion, anticipation and joy into every occasion. From everyday celebrations to our most iconic traditions, Macy’s creates reasons to connect.”
