Duckling Day on Sunday, May 13, is the cutest family event in Boston. The Friends of the Public Garden, in association with the City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department, will celebrate Mother’s Day with Boston-area families during its annual Duckling Day.
A beloved tradition for more than 30 years, Duckling Day celebrates the classic children’s book, “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey. Every year, over 1,000 people meet up and parade through Boston’s most picturesque parks, dressed like characters from the story. Led by the Harvard Marching Band, the parade will begin on the Boston Common at the Parkman Bandstand and end in the Public Garden near the famous Make Way for Ducklings sculptures. Bring your camera – the parade is possibly the most adorable thing you’ll ever see!
Prior to the parade will be Playtime on the Common, a vibrant array of family entertainment including crafts, face painters, a magician, circus games with Esh Circus Arts, and climbing and jumping with the Knucklebones crew. All families are welcome to decorate their wagons or strollers, bring a picnic, and enjoy springtime in Boston’s most beloved parks! New this year is the Fit-Topia area from top sponsor Stride Rite where they display their sunniest styles alongside light-up displays, lei making, and a swing station. When kids need a break from the excitement, they can also cuddle up at our Reading Station with a book – Make Way for Ducklings, of course!
Registration/check-in and Playtime on the Common begins at 10 a.m., followed by Executive Director Liz Vizza greets families at 11:45 a.m. and the parade at noon. The registration fee is $35 per family online (before May 11) and $40 per family the day of the event. Each child who registers will receive a special goodie bag filled with Duckling Day themed items.
Register at friendsofthepublicgarden/ducklingday/.