Boston's Duckling Day Parade Celebrates Family, Tradition and a Beloved Book
Thousands of families gathered in Boston’s Public Garden to celebrate Mother’s Day and the beloved children’s book Make Way for Ducklings. The annual Duckling Day event brought together parents and children for a parade, activities, and a shared love of the city’s parks.
For many, the day has become a cherished tradition, blending family time with the story of the famous ducklings that have charmed Boston for generations.
The festivities began with family-friendly activities in the Common before the parade set off. Children dressed as police officers led the way, guiding a long line of ducklings through the park. Their march ended at the iconic bronze duckling statues, inspired by Robert McCloskey’s classic book.
City councilor Sharon Durkan called Duckling Day one of Boston’s finest traditions. Liza Meyer, President of Friends of the Public Garden, added that the event honours both the book and the memories families create in the city’s green spaces. She hoped these moments would inspire future generations to keep the tradition alive. For some, the day holds deeper meaning. Jennifer Long, a single mother, first attended four years ago with her daughter and a friend. Since then, their small group has grown into a larger circle of single mothers who now celebrate together each year.
The parade wound through the Common and ended at the duckling statues, where families lingered to take photos and enjoy the day. With activities, costumes, and a shared love of the book, Duckling Day once again brought Boston’s parks to life. Organisers and attendees alike looked forward to continuing the tradition in the years ahead.
