Chicago, IL – Thousands of rubber ducks will once again float down the Chicago River for a good cause this summer.
The annual Chicago Ducky Derby is celebrating its 20th anniversary, offering a chance for the public to win prizes while supporting a vital statewide organization. The family-friendly event, presented by Jewel-Osco, has become a summer tradition in the city, drawing crowds to the riverfront to watch the unique race and support the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.
According to Special Olympics Illinois, the festivities are scheduled for Thursday, August 7th. The day kicks off with the Derby Festival at 10:00 AM in Pioneer Court, which will feature games, live music, and photo opportunities. The main event, the “Splashdown,” will take place at 1:00 PM, where tens of thousands of adopted ducks will be dropped into the Chicago River from the Columbus Drive Bridge in a race to the finish line.
The event serves as a critical fundraiser for the organization, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for more than 21,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities across the state. Supporters can participate by “adopting” ducks at the official chicagoduckyderby.com website. Packages range from a “Lone Duck” for $10 to a “Quack Pack” of six for $30. As of this week, fundraising efforts have already surpassed $35,000. The sponsor of the first duck to cross the finish line will win a grand prize.
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