The World’s Largest Rubber Duck: A Giant Floating Icon — If you’ve ever spotted an enormous, bright yellow rubber duck floating in a harbor, you’re not imagining things. The world’s largest rubber duck, affectionately known as “Mama Duck,” has been making waves across the globe, bringing joy, nostalgia, and a little bit of whimsy wherever she goes.

The World’s Largest Rubber Duck: A Giant Floating Icon

What Is the World’s Largest Rubber Duck?

Standing at an impressive six stories tall (over 60 feet!) and weighing more than 30,000 pounds, Mama Duck is a massive inflatable version of the classic bath toy.

The original world’s largest rubber duck concept was created by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman in 2007 as an art installation. His version toured internationally in places like Sydney, Hong Kong, and Amsterdam.

However, Craig Samborski, an event producer from the U.S., created a separate version of the giant rubber duck, which has been touring North America. Samborski’s “Mama Duck” made waves at festivals in the U.S. and Canada, such as the Tall Ships Festival in Los Angeles and the Redpath Waterfront Festival in Toronto.

So, while Hofman is credited with the original artistic creation, Samborski is responsible for bringing his own version of the giant rubber duck to North American events. His version is often the one people in the U.S. and Canada recognize.

Why Was It Created?

Hofman’s vision behind the giant rubber duck was simple: to spread joy and remind people of their childhood. His art piece is meant to break down barriers and bring people together, no matter their background or location. According to Hofman, the duck has “no frontiers” and represents a universal symbol of fun and nostalgia.

Where Has the Giant Rubber Duck Been?

Since its debut, the enormous duck has made appearances in over a dozen countries and has drawn millions of visitors. Some of its most famous stops include:

• Sydney, Australia (2013) – One of the most iconic locations, where it floated in Darling Harbour.

• Hong Kong (2013) – A massive crowd gathered to see the duck, though it famously deflated at one point.

• Los Angeles, California (2014) – It was a highlight of the Tall Ships Festival in San Pedro.

• Toronto, Canada (2017) – The duck made waves as part of the Redpath Waterfront Festival.

• Buffalo, New York (2023) – Mama Duck made headlines again, delighting visitors on the Great Lakes.

Each event draws thousands of spectators eager to snap a photo with the giant floating friend.

How Is It Transported?

Moving a 60-foot rubber duck isn’t as simple as tossing it in the back of a truck. The inflatable structure is deflated, packed, and shipped to its next location, where a team carefully inflates it again. Large air pumps and a team of professionals ensure it stays afloat safely.

Future Tour Dates:

As of February 9, 2025, the World’s Largest Rubber Duck, affectionately known as “Mama Duck,” has the following scheduled appearances:

• Georgefest: February 15–22, 2025, at Ferran Park.

• Bayou Jeep Fest: March 29–30, 2025, in Belle Chasse.

• Ouachita RiverFest: April 23–27, 2025, at 124 Commerce Street.

For the most current information and additional details, including to try to get Mama Duck to your location, please visit the official website: thebigduck.us

Fun Facts About the Giant Rubber Duck

• The duck is not actually made of rubber—it’s constructed from PVC material, similar to a bouncy castle.

• Hofman’s original duck has inspired multiple versions worldwide, including an American-owned Mama Duck that tours North America.

• The duck has sparked controversy in some locations due to its cost, with some questioning the use of public funds for its appearance.

• It has even been involved in mystery disappearances—a version of the duck once vanished off the coast of Maine!

Why Do People Love the Giant Rubber Duck?

There’s something undeniably charming about seeing a gigantic rubber duck floating on a city’s waterfront. Whether it’s the nostalgia of childhood bath toys, the sheer absurdity of its size, or the joyful expression it brings to people’s faces, Mama Duck has cemented itself as a beloved global attraction.

Will the Giant Rubber Duck Visit Your City Next?

Mama Duck continues to tour, making appearances at festivals and waterfronts around the world. If you haven’t seen it yet, keep an eye on upcoming events—you might just get the chance to witness this quacky spectacle in person!

Would you want to see the world’s largest rubber duck float into your town or have you seen Mama Duck? Let us know in the duckie comments!