What is the Chicago Ducky Derby? The Chicago Ducky Derby is a signature annual fundraiser benefiting 23,000 athletes and over 13,000 Young Athletes for Special Olympics Illinois! Usually, thousands of spectators watch 60,000 yellow rubber ducks splash into the Chicago River in downtown Chicago and race down the river towards the finish line in person. This year we will not be congregating at the drop site, but everyone can still watch all the fun on www.chicagoduckyderby.com beginning with our virtual Family Festival at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2020. The first place winner of the race will win a 2020 Chevy Equinox!

How do I adopt a duck? Adopt a duck for only $5 online by clicking here or form a Ducky Derby Sales Team! Get more chances to win by purchasing a Quack Pack (6 ducks for $25), Flock of Ducks (24 ducks for $100), or Diamond Duck Pack (240 ducks for $1,000)!

What if my duck wins? The winner will receive one of many great prizes including a 2020 Chevy Equinox, $2,500 cash, a VIP experience at the 2020 or 2021 BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Chicago Blackhawks tickets, and more!

How do I get involved? Sales teams are forming now. Put together a group of friends, colleagues, or family members to join the fun. Teams compete for bragging rights and great prizes. To form a Sales Team click here. For more information on starting a team or to volunteer, contact Emily Merkle at emerkle@soill.org or 224-283-2308.


Duck Ambassador: Mike McLaughlin

Special Olympics Illinois athlete Mike McLaughlin of Elmhurst, IL serves as this year’s Duck Ambassador. He has been competing in since 1982. A graduate of York High School, he is employed at Jewel-Osco and has won countless gold, silver, and bronze medals in bocce, basketball, volleyball, bowling, swimming, track and field, tennis, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.



Presenting Sponsor

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors

Festival Sponsors

Event Sponsors

Media Sponsors

Prize Sponsors