The 72nd Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was held on November 26, 1998, in New York City and shown to viewers live on NBC that same day from 9 a.m. to noon EST. It was hosted by Katie Couric, Matt Lauer, and Al Roker. The lineup featured 12 giant helium balloons, 19 novelty balloons, 18 floats and five falloons, six toy floats, 12 marching bands, 11 special groups, 38 clown units, and the one-and-only Santa Claus.