Tag: aquatics

Get ready to quack up, Myrtle Beach! The World’s Largest Rubber Duck, known as “Mama Duck,” is making her way to the Grand Strand May 8–11, 2025—and she’s not just here for the photo ops. Towering over six stories tall, Mama Duck is splashing down as a larger-than-life ambassador for National Water Safety Month and the YMCA of Coastal Carolina’s Splash Safe Challenge.

This exciting event is a community collaboration between the YMCA of Coastal Carolina, the City of Myrtle Beach, and Visit Myrtle Beach, with generous sponsorship from Black’s Tire & Auto Service and health partnership support from Tidelands Health.

Why Mama Duck? Why Now?
Each May, communities across the country shine a spotlight on water safety. With Myrtle Beach’s strong connection to the ocean, pools, and waterways, raising awareness about water safety is more important than ever. Mama Duck’s towering presence is meant to do just that—spark curiosity, draw crowds, and most importantly, educate both locals and visitors about staying safe in and around water.

📸 Don’t forget your camera! Mama Duck is incredibly photogenic and perfect for family-friendly selfies.

When & Where to Catch Mama Duck
📍 Location:
Burroughs & Chapin Pavilion Park
812 N Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach (Duck located at 8th Ave. N. & Ocean Blvd.)

📅 Dates: May 8–11, 2025

🕙 Daily Viewing Hours:
May 8–10: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
May 11: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

🎥 Daily Media Opportunity:
Duck inflation video ops: 9–10 a.m.

🎤 Opening Announcement & Media Availability:
May 8, 11 a.m. – Noon

🛟 Splash Safe Day – May 10: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Meet Mama Duck and enjoy interactive water safety demonstrations led by the YMCA of Coastal Carolina.

Dive Into Water Safety: Learn, Share, Act
The Splash Safe campaign offers essential water safety resources, videos, and tips at visitmyrtlebeach.com/splashsafe. Whether you’re a parent, a new swimmer, or just love being near the water, knowledge saves lives.

💦 Want to help?
Donate to provide free swim lessons: givebutter.com/splashsafe
Sign up for free swim lessons – Scholarships available! Call your local YMCA branch for more info.

About Mama Duck
Mama Duck has captured hearts across North America with her cheerful, oversized charm. She’s more than just a photo magnet—she’s a symbol of joy, community, and safety. Learn more about her journey and story at thebigduck.us.

Shoutout to Our Splash Safe Heroes
A big wave of thanks to our Swim Safety Scholarship Honor Roll—your support helps keep our community safer:

• The Chapin Foundation
• Melinda Grafton & Mike Lestingi
• Tory & Jon Mackey
• Anonymous
• Rhett Sansbury
• Burr & Forman
• HTC
• First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach
• Mary Chase & Carmen’s Duck Stand

🐥 Come Make a Splash with Mama Duck – May 8–11!

Bring your family, your camera, and your curiosity. Let’s make waves in water safety together.

Thank you to our sponsors: