15 floats + 19 bands + 7,000 marchers = 1 pulsating parade

It's America's oldest Thanksgiving Day parade and as much a holiday tradition as turkey, sweet potatoes and Black Friday shopping.

The 89-year-old parade, sponsored this year by 6ABC and Ikea, kicks off at 8:15 a.m. tomorrow at 20th and Market streets and ends at noon at Eakins Oval.

Those not wishing to brave the cold can watch the parade from the warmth of their homes during a live, 3 1/2-hour telecast on 6ABC, hosted by Dave Roberts and Cecily Tynan of "Action News."

The event includes 15 floats, 14 giant helium balloons and 19 marching bands from across the country, as well as more than 7,000 marchers and performers.

Also on the bill are pop singer Mario, "American Idol" finalists Syesha Mercado and Justin Guarini, celebrity chef Rachael Ray, and a new float celebrating The Chronicles of Narnia, a touring exhibition opening Friday at the Franklin Institute.

The Eagles cheerleaders and pep band also will perform, in a pep rally for the team's first Thanksgiving-night game in 19 years.

The parade will travel east on Market Street from 20th to 15th Street, then north to Arch Street and northwest on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the Art Museum.

In recent years, the parade had been sponsored by Boscov's. *