Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb Save Awkward Macy’s Parade Moment

Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb recovered quickly after The War and Treaty’s music did not start during the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“Rockin’ around the three-story tall Vermont White Spruce Christmas tree is a hand-crafted children’s carousel and with a gorgeous array of some of their 40 different true-to-life trees,” Kotb, 60, said during the live parade broadcast on Thursday, November 28. “It’s clear this scene will be an evergreen tradition.”

Guthrie, 52, went on to introduce The War and Treaty, who were performing on the Balsam Hill float, but something went awry.

“Well, you know what, every now and then there’s a little hiccup,” Kotb stated. Fans could be heard cheering for the performers even though they were not singing.

“We’re getting the music, but it will be worth it,” Guthrie added, praising The War and Treaty — who is comprised of husband-and-wife duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter. “They should be coming up any moment now.”

Tanya Trotter and Michael Trotter Jr perform as The War and Treaty at 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. NBC

Kotb continued to recover from the awkward moment from shouting out all the marching bands that were walking through the New York City streets during the Thanksgiving Day rain.

After discussing some of the floats that were coming down the street, the duo cut to a commercial. Kotb could also be heard holding back laughter at one point. When the broadcast returned from the break, The War and Treaty did get a chance to perform their rendition of “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).”

Despite the weather, this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade didn’t feature too many mishaps. However, it was an emotional one for Kotb. The NBC anchor announced in September that she would be retiring from the Today show. (When Cynthia Erivo made an appearance on Thursday’s parade, she even brought Kotb flowers.)

“I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new. This is the right time for me to move on,” she said during the September 26 broadcast, getting emotional. Later day, Kotb further explained her decision to leave the with a letter posted on the Today website.

“As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” she shared. “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be right at the same time, and I’m feeling that so deeply right now. I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show.”