The annual event will dunk on the internet tomorrow morning at 11 am!
While many spring and summer events in Chicago have had to either cancel or postpone, Chicago’s signature Ducky Derby has all their ducks in a row for going forward with the annual event — virtually, that is.
Every summer, over 60,000 yellow ducks splash away in the Chicago River in a lip-biting race to the finish line. Thousands of Chicagoans flock to the downtown area to watch the spectacle. This year, however, the derby has had to change course amid concerns of contributing to the spread of the virus. Thus, the Ducky Derby will take place on the unchartered waters of the internet beginning with a virtual Family Festival on Thursday at 11 am.
The Ducky Derby is an annual benefit supporting Special Olympics Illinois. Thus far, over 60,000 ducks have been adopted, raising nearly $298,865 for 23,000 athletes for more than 13,000 young athletes. At this present moment, the annual fundraiser is less that 5,000 adopted ducks shy of their goal of 65,000.
Chicagoans can adopt a duck for only $5, or opt for their Quack Pack (6 ducks for $25), Flock of Ducks (24 ducks for $100), or a Diamond Duck Pack (240 ducks for $1,000) to increase their chances of winning the top prizes?
What are the prizes, you ask? The grand prize winner will win a 2020 Chevy Equinox. Other prizes include: $2,500 cash, a VIP experience at the 2020 or 2021 BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Chicago Blackhawks tickets, and more!
The virtual Ducky Derby is set to dunk on its website, or via the Special Olympics Illinois Facebook and Twitch accounts. The derby will also include music performances from The Struts, Lauren Alaina and more, as well as special appearances by Mark Cuevas, Paulina Rose, Rufio, and many more!
Want to plunge into the action? Adopt a duck!
See also: Chicago Collective Place Community ‘Love Fridges’ In Bridgeport And Little Village For Neighbors In Need
[Featured image: @cdats]