The day begins at 10:00 a.m. with check-in and a goody bag full of Duckling Day-themed items for every child. Playtime on the Common features a wide range of activities including activity booths, lawn games, magic, and live music that take place on the grass at Parkman Bandstand. The area is filled with children, parents, and caregivers who come together to enjoy games and other outdoor activities.  

Playtime on the Common activities include: 

• Jump, climb, and run with Knucklebones
• Jenny the Juggler
• A traditional lion dance performance by students from Woo Ching White Crane School
• Make Way for Ducklings reading station, where the children’s classic is read by the Duckling Day Volunteer Brigade
• Hang out with our gentle giant Duckling mascot!
• Visit with a live Marching Band
• A dedicated quiet tent
• Various activity tents presented by our sponsors

All activities are included with family admission. We understand how excited your little ducklings are about this special day and we are committed to making it happen rain or shine!  

Duckling Day is accessible via the following transit options: 

Via car: The Bandstand is located at 165 Tremont Street, Boston, MA on GPS. Paid parking is available in the Boston Common Garage or Transportation Building garages; on-street parking is free on Sundays. 

Via subway: Take the Red or Green Line to Park Street, Green Line to Boylston, or Orange Line to Downtown Crossing (requires short walk)

Via MBTA Bus: Take any of the following bus routes: #11, #43, #501, and #504. For any of these bus routes, stop close to the Common. Stops may require a short walk. Check your MBTA app for exact proximity.

We are proud to support families with sensory sensitivities by providing sensory friendly check-in. Please reach out to our team at events@friendsofthepublicgarden.org for more information and assistance.  

The event is ADA accessible. The parade route is level and does not traverse any stairs or elevated surfaces.  

Being a Duckling Day sponsor gives your organization or company a unique opportunity to connect with families and children from the Greater Boston metro area. Promote your brand in a fun and memorable way that builds customer loyalty. Most sponsorship levels include an on-site exhibit space fully integrated with the performers, games, and activities as well as pre- and post-event promotional benefits for your business. 

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Maliaka Shepard, Senior Communications & Outreach Officer at maliaka@friendsofthepublicgarden.org. 

Please contact Maliaka Shepard, Senior Communications & Outreach Officer at maliaka@friendsofthepublicgarden.org if you wish to arrange press coverage.