90,000 Rubber Ducks Turn a Chicago River Into a Giant Charity Race
90,000 Rubber Ducks Turn a Chicago River Into a Giant Charity Race
Thousands of people gathered in downtown Chicago this summer to watch an unusual race as 90,000 rubber ducks were released into the Chicago River for a major charity fundraiser.
The annual Chicago Ducky Derby took place on August 6 and raised money for Special Olympics Illinois, which provides sports training and competitions for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
A River Full of Yellow Ducks
The ducks were released from the Columbus Drive Bridge, creating a huge yellow patch on the river before they slowly floated downstream.
The race lasted around 15 minutes. Volunteers then collected the ducks from the water so they could be reused rather than left behind in the river.
A Fundraiser With a Fun Twist
People could sponsor individual ducks for $10 or purchase groups of six. Each sponsored duck helped support Special Olympics Illinois programs.
The event raised more than $480,000, with the funds helping provide resources such as meals, medals, sports training and competitions for athletes across Illinois.
An Athlete Helped Celebrate the Winning Duck
Becky Cavanagh, a Special Olympics Illinois athlete who has participated in the program for 13 years, served as the event’s ambassador.
After the race, Cavanagh held up the winning duck as crowds gathered along both sides of the Chicago River cheered.
A Chicago Tradition
The Chicago Ducky Derby has been held annually since 2005. What began as an unusual fundraising idea has become a colorful community event that combines entertainment with support for Special Olympics athletes.
Beyond the race itself, the event included activities, food, music and giant inflatable ducks, bringing thousands of people together along the riverfront.
Sources
- Associated Press — “Rubber ducks by the thousands splash into Chicago River for annual Special Olympics fundraiser,” August 6, 2026.
- CBS Chicago — “2026 Ducky Derby splashes down in Chicago River for Special Olympics,” August 6, 2026.
- WBEZ Chicago — “Rubber duck race helps Special Olympics pay the bills,” August 6, 2026.
- Chicago Ducky Derby — Official event information and fundraising records, 2026.
