Bring the family to the Duckling Day Parade

The adorable event once again returns to the Public Garden on Mother’s Day.

The Duckling Day Parade in the Public Garden in 2022. (Jessica Rinaldi/Globe Staff)

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Held at the Public Garden each spring for over 30 years, the Duckling Day Parade once again returns this May. On Sunday, May 12 (Mother’s Day), hundreds of families with children parade through the common and the gardens, led by the Harvard Marching Band.

Hosted by the Friends of the Public Garden, the parade celebrates the classic book “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey and ends at the “Make Way for Ducklings” sculpture in the Public Garden by the corner of Charles and Beacon.

Kids are encouraged to dress up like characters from the story for the parade that begins at noon by the Parkman Bandstand on the common. Before the parade starts, from 10 a.m. to noon, guests will find Playtime on the Common, a morning of family entertainment from the likes of Jenny the Juggler and magician Peter O’Malley, along with interactive circus games, a visit with the Harvard Marching Band, and a “Make Way for Ducklings” reading station.

The registration fee for the parade, which is $40 the day of the event or $35 per family in advance, includes Playtime on the Common along with a goodie bag for each registered child. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the Public Garden after the festivities end.