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More than 90 thousand rubber ducks are dropped into the Chicago River as part of the annual Chicago Duck Derby for Special Olympics Illinois in Chicago, Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026

Video. 90,000 rubber ducks race down Chicago River for charity

Updated:

Rubber ducks race down Chicago River in the annual Ducky Derby, raising funds for Special Olympics Illinois and its athletes.

More than 90,000 rubber ducks are dumped into the Chicago River from a truck on the Columbus Drive bridge as crowds watch the annual Ducky Derby. The ducks float downstream before staff select the winning duck and remove the others with fishing nets.

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Held on 6 August, the race raises money for Special Olympics Illinois, which organises competitions for people with intellectual disabilities across the state.

Participants can sponsor individual ducks or groups of six, with the proceeds helping to provide meals and medals for athletes.

The fundraiser has raised more than $480,000 to date.

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