One of the most beloved Mother’s Day traditions in the Hub, Duckling Day returns to the heart of the city May 14 from 10 a.m.–noon. Inspired by the Boston-set children’s book classic Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, which in turn led to the creation of Nancy Schön’s fan-favorite statues at the Public Garden, this cavalcade of cuteness welcomes families from all over the area, who gather at the Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common, where a jugglers, magician, lion dancers and more entertain the masses. After the festivities, the Harvard University Marching Band then leads the crowd to the aforementioned sculptures at the iconic botanical garden across the way. Costumes inspired by the book are encouraged, adding color to an already lively, family-friendly celebration sure to be the highlight of the spring. The registration fee covers the entire family—not to mention goodie bags for the little ones and entry to the pre-parade playtime at the Common—so sign up on the Friends of the Public Garden website while there’s still time.
