Did you know tens of thousands of rubber ducks splash down into the Chicago River to race every year? Chicago celebrated its 20th annual duck derby this year, featuring a rubber duck race along the Columbus Drive Bridge. Participants can adopt a duck starting at $10 with a chance to win prizes for every entry. Proceeds from the derby benefit the Special Olympics Illinois programming and supports a community of over 24,000 athletes. This year over 82,000 ducks were adopted, accounting for $434,204 raised.
Once the race is over the ducks are collected by volunteers and staff to be cleaned and readied for their next derby. The derby festival includes games, food trucks, souvenirs, photo opportunities and music.
Events like this raise awareness for Special Olympics while also providing an engaging fundraiser to benefit Special Olympic athletes.
