Chicago’s Ducky Derby is Back!

Have you ever wanted to see 80,000+ rubber ducks float down the Chicago River, with the chance to win a grand prize? It’s a “quack”tacular sight you won’t want to miss!

Every summer, Chicago hosts the Ducky Derby, a fundraiser supporting Special Olympics Illinois. Hundreds of spectators gather along the Riverwalk to watch the incomparable spectacle: thousands of yellow rubber duckies making their journey through the Windy City’s waterway.

Individuals and groups “adopt” ducks, each with their own unique number. The first duck to cross the finish line at the end of the course is the winner, with prizes including cars, sports tickets, and cash jackpots. Proceeds from the fundraising race benefit Special Olympics Illinois, a community of over 24,000 athletes throughout the state that provides year-round training and competition for athletes of all ages.

The Chicago Ducky Derby raised over $330,000 in 2024, helping Special Olympics Illinois provide athletes with meals and public health education at events, as well as travel to national leadership conferences and state athletic championships.

From the initial drop into the river via a huge truck, to the partitioned course along the Chicago River, to the wrangling of ducks on the other end, the Chicago Ducky Derby is an event you won’t forget! Arrive early to enjoy the Derby Festival, featuring games, food trucks, souvenirs, and entertainment for the whole family.

Get up close and personal to the action with a Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady, TripAdvisor’s
#1 rated Chicago boat tour. The race kicks off with the “Duck Drop” in the early afternoon (click here for this year’s date and time), so reserve your time slot while seats last!

We’ll see you aboard — And may the best duck win!