DUCKLING DAY
The Friends of the Public Garden, in association with the City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department, celebrates Mother’s Day with Boston-area families during its annual Duckling Day event. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, May 14, 2023 – register today!

A beloved tradition for more than 30 years, Duckling Day celebrates the children’s classic book, “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey. Every year, hundreds of children 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 sculpture. 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 a creative play area, a magician and other performers, interactive circus games, live music, and more. All families are welcome to decorate their wagons or strollers, bring a picnic, and enjoy springtime in Boston’s most beloved parks!

Duckling Day
Sunday, May 14, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Parkman Bandstand, Boston Common
Registration: $35
Celebrate Mother’s Day in Boston’s most beautiful parks at the Duckling Day celebration and parade on Sunday, May 14.

A beloved tradition for over 30 years, the event celebrates the children’s classic book Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey. Every year, hundreds of children parade through Boston’s most picturesque parks, dressed like characters from the story. Led by the Harvard University Marching Band, the parade will begin in the Boston Common at the Parkman Bandstand and end in the Public Garden near the famous Make Way for Ducklings sculptures. Bring your cameras – this is the most adorable event in all of Boston!

Prior to the parade will be Playtime on the Common, a vibrant array of family entertainment from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. All activities are included with event admission:

Interactive Circus Games with Esh Circus Arts
Jenny the Juggler
Peter O’Malley, magician
Jump, climb, and play with Knucklebones
Meet our giant Duck!
Visit with the Harvard University Band
Make Way for Ducklings reading station
A goody bag for every kid – full of Duckling Day-themed items!
Participants are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated and boosted if they are eligible. For the safety of our most vulnerable attendees, all event staff and volunteers have been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Duckling Day Registration
$35.00 – Admission for one family, any size: Includes admission to Playtime on the Common and the annual parade