Supplemental Info:
Thanksgiving 2025 Threat Roundup
Security is increasing at major U.S. parade routes this Thanksgiving, particularly for high-profile events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City (expecting 3.5 million+ spectators) and similar events in cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles. These enhancements build on standard protocols but are stepped up due to the scale of various events, recent vehicle-ramming incidents, and a broader DHS alert on heightened threats to crowded gatherings.
Authorities are emphasizing proactive measures like vehicle barriers, countermeasures for aerial threats, and drone surveillance.
A joint FBI / partner intelligence bulletin cautions the 99th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade "will provide a broad set of potential soft targets for an attack," but there is no specific, actionable threat.
Vehicle Ramming Threat
Vehicle ramming attacks have surged globally in the past six months, with at least 20 documented incidents across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, resulting in over 100 fatalities and 500 injuries. These low-barrier tactics—requiring only a vehicle and intent—exploit crowds, law enforcement, and symbolic sites, blending terrorism, extremism, and mental health crises. Data from DHS, Mineta Transportation Institute, and online sources show a 20-30% rise over prior periods, driven by Islamist radicalization, anti-immigration enforcement violence, and geopolitical tensions.
Tactical evolution shows sustained appeal to both organized extremist networks (ISIS, AQ, online encouragement) and self-radicalized/lone actors. Physical mitigation ("peace bollards," controlled access points) has reduced success rates at hardened venues, but remains incomplete at parades, markets, and other seasonal (non-permanent) public gathering places. The tactic’s low barrier to entry ensures it will persist as a primary asymmetric threat through 2026.
If Attending a Large Public Event
Monitor official event apps for route changes or emergency instructions.
Identify at least two egress routes and rally points with family members; avoid relying solely on cellular networks which routinely fail under mass congestion.
Travel light: small cross-body bags only (many venues prohibit bags >12×6×12 in). Clear bags accelerate screening. Leave unnecessary valuables at home.
Arrival & Positioning
Arrive 90–120 minutes early. Enhanced screening and vehicle barriers create predictable chokepoints that lengthen entry times.
Position near hardened barriers (bollards, sanitation trucks, blocker vehicles) rather than open curb lines.
Maintain 360° situational awareness. Note the nearest uniformed officer, marked exits, and medical tents (typically every 3–4 blocks on major routes).
During the Event
If You See Something, Say Something: immediately report abandoned bags, erratic drivers, or suspicious individuals to the nearest officer or via 911/text-to-911.
Keep your earbuds in your pocket.
In a vehicle incursion: run perpendicular to the vehicle’s path; do not freeze or run parallel along the street. Seek cover behind fixed heavy objects.
Active shooter secondary threat: move away from the initial impact zone—historical data show 28% of ramming incidents include follow-on bladed or firearm attacks.
The normal Threat Journal newsletter and podcast will not be published this weekend in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. The alert service continues without interruption. We continue to monitor world events and will immediately notify you of any changes to the security environment.
