Even though July has almost come to an end, there is a reason to start getting excited about August, and no, it’s not Lollapalooza— it’s an event featuring thousands of yellow rubber ducks.
Every year, the Chicago Ducky Derby, organized by Special Olympics Illinois, showcases an exciting descent of 100,000 rubber ducks from the iconic Columbus Drive Bridge into the waters of the Chicago River.
These cute rubber ducks then paddle and race along the river, creating a spectacle that almost every Chicagoan loves.
When will the Chicago Ducky Derby take place?
The Chicago Ducky Derby will take place on August 7, 2025, with a festival starting at 10:00 am in Pioneer Court. The race takes place at 1 pm.
How can I adopt a duck for the Chicago Ducky Derby?
To participate in the race, individuals can adopt a duck starting at $10.
Ducks can be adopted individually or in packages here or on the day of the race. You can adopt a duck in person at Pioneer Court until 12:50 pm, while supplies last.
What happens if your duck wins?
Prizes for the winning duck include:
- Chevy Trailblazer SUV—Part of the Chevrolet SUV lineup, promoted by Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana Chevy Dealers.
- $2,500 Cash Prize—Spending money provided by Wintrust Financial.
- W Club Chicago Cubs Tickets—4 premium tickets for the Cubs vs. Cardinals season finale at Wrigley Field on September 28, 2025
What’s the Chicago Ducky Derby for?
The Chicago Ducky Derby aims to raise critical funds and awareness for the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.