The annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade just wouldn’t be the same without star-studded performances by popular singers and appearances by some of the most admired cartoon characters on TV.

16-year-old Miley Cyrus (who celebrated her sweet 16 early this week) is taking a break from shopping with her 20-year-old boyfriend Justin Gaston to perform during today’s coveted event.

And while Miley will be headlining the Thanksgiving parade, she won’t be the only starlet to make her mark on the floats of this prestigious parade. Other performers include American Idol alum, David Archuleta, James Taylor, Sugarland and former Hootie and the Blowfish frontman Darius Rucker. Disney's The Cheetah Girls were scheduled to perform but were quickly dropped by last week following Adrienne Bailon's nude photo scandal.

Little tykes excited to see some of their favourite cartoon characters can expect to appearances from Kermit the Frog and giant balloon caricatures of Buzz Lightyear, the Smurfs and more.

The 82nd annual event will be hosted by The Today Show's Matt Lauer, Meredith Viera and Al Roker and will air on NBC and CBS today (November 27) from 9am until noon. 

Wonder if Britney Spears will make an appearance...

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