News Summary
On Sunday, Boston Common was filled with families enjoying the annual Duckling Day Parade, a celebration of Robert McCloskey’s classic children’s book, ‘Make Way for Ducklings.’ The event featured over 1,000 children dressed in costumes, alongside games, magic shows, and live music. Boston’s Mayor Michelle Wu attended, emphasizing the spirit of family engagement. The parade retraced Mrs. Mallard’s journey to the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ sculpture, making it a cherished tradition that promotes a love for reading and community bonding.
Boston Celebrates Duckling Day Parade, Honoring Children’s Literature
Boston Common was alive with color and laughter on Sunday as the annual Duckling Day Parade took place, drawing families to celebrate Robert McCloskey’s beloved children’s book, “Make Way for Ducklings.” This event, which marks over thirty years of festivities, brings together the community in a joyful tribute to the state’s official children’s book.
The parade featured more than 1,000 children, many donning costumes inspired by the charming tale of Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings. Attendees participated in a variety of activities, which included lawn games, magic shows, face painting, reading stations, and live music, ensuring there was something for everyone. Boston’s Mayor Michelle Wu made an appearance, attending the event with her children, underscoring the family-oriented spirit of the day.
The day’s festivities culminated in a vibrant parade retracing Mrs. Mallard’s journey to the iconic “Make Way for Ducklings” sculpture located in the Public Garden. Participants and spectators alike enjoyed the lively atmosphere, which was further enhanced by the participation of the Harvard Band. The event was open to the public, with registration for the parade requiring a fee of $35, while attendance to the general event was free of charge.
Favorable weather greeted attendees this year, providing perfect conditions for the springtime celebration. The Duckling Day Parade has become a cherished tradition among families in Boston, offering a delightful blend of literature and community engagement.
Details of the Event
Beyond the parade, Boston Common hosted numerous activity booths and entertainment options centered around the Parkman Bandstand. Families participated in various games and enjoyed performances that sparked joy and engagement. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as children interacted with characters inspired by McCloskey’s story, further immersing themselves in the experience.
History and Significance
For more than three decades, the Duckling Day Parade has served as a celebration of children’s literature and family bonding. “Make Way for Ducklings” tells the endearing story of a mother duck and her ducklings navigating the bustling city of Boston, making it a fitting theme for this annual event. Through the years, the parade has not only entertained families but also promoted a love for reading and storytelling among young attendees.
The lasting impact of the parade reflects the significance of McCloskey’s work in Massachusetts and beyond. The event serves as a reminder of the joy that literature can bring and the importance of community in fostering that enjoyment.
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Additional Resources
- WCVB: Duckling Day Parade Returns to Boston Common
- Sentinel & Enterprise: Make Way for Ducklings Westford Brothers Lead Boston’s Duckling Day Parade
- Boston 25 News: Boston Common Hosts Annual Duckling Day Celebration
- Time Out: Make Way for Ducklings on the Boston Common
- Boston.com: Who Dresses the Make Way for Ducklings Ducks?
- Wikipedia: Make Way for Ducklings
- Google Search: Duckling Day Parade Bostons
- Google Scholar: Make Way for Ducklings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Make Way for Ducklings
- Google News: Duckling Day Parade
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
