April 23, 2024 – The Children’s Museum of Illinois is selling ducks for it’s annual Duck Derby, taking place on May 18th at the Museum, with a chance for one lucky duck to win $3000.
“The Duck Derby is the Children’s Museum’s longest running fundraiser, and I can’t believe this is already my third!” said Rikki Parker, executive Director of the CMofIL. The Duck Derby is our official kick-off to the summer, and the races are short and exciting on Mueller’s custom-built track.”
Up to 3,000 numbered rubber ducks will race in heats on the water-propelled racetrack. The top finishers from each heat then compete in a final race to win cash prizes. The more ducks you buy, the more chances you have to win.
Third place will receive $500, second place will win $1500 and the grand prize is $3000.
Ducks can be purchased for $10 dollars each or in discount bundles.
- One Duck = $10
- Duck Fam (5 ducks) = $40
- Flock o’ Ducks (10) = $75
- Quack Pack (20) = $125
- Duck Dynasty (40) = $200
The Duck Derby on May 18th will run from 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, with activities inside and out of the museum beginning at 9:30.
Outside family fun is free to all and includes karaoke for kids, bounce houses, donuts and coffee, big trucks, a caricature artist, and more. Inside the museum, the Rubber Duck Hunt will return, where if you find a hidden rubber duck you can trade it for a prize pack. Plus, museum admission is $2 dollars off.
Byers & Co is kicking off the Duck Derby season with chances to win additional ducks and prizes. Purchase your ducks before 8:50am on Thursday April 25h and you will be entered to win the following prizes drawn each hour live on Byers & Co:
6:50 a.m. – A dozen Coney McKane’s cookies, 1 summer membership to the museum and, 1 free duck in the race
7:50 a.m. -4 tickets to The Little Mermen on June 29th at The Devon, 1 summer membership to the museum and 1 free duck in the race
8:50 a.m. 4 tickets to Mini Pop Kids on July 26th at The Devon, 1 summer membership to the museum and, 1 free duck in the race
In addition, doors to the Museum will open at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday the 25th for anyone who would like to purchase ducks, memberships, or make donations in person. You can also purchase ducks online by clicking HERE.
