Pittsburgh: Giant Rubber Ducky Floats into Monongahela River

Pittsburgh: Giant Rubber Ducky Floats into Monongahela River, Adding Cheer to Steel City SkylinePittsburgh: Giant Rubber Ducky Floats into Monongahela River, Adding Cheer to Steel City Skyline In a whimsical spectacle that defied physics and gravity, a colossal inflatable rubber ducky, taller than a six-story building, graced the Monongahela River in Pittsburgh on Saturday. Measuring 40 feet high and 50 feet long, the monstrous waterfowl became an instant icon, its vibrant yellow hue illuminating the riverfront like a surreal beacon of joy. As the ducky was gently released into the water, a chorus of cheers and giggles erupted from the crowd that had gathered along the banks. It wobbled and swayed with the gentle current, its oversized beak pointing towards the city skyline. The spectacle was part of the Three Rivers Arts Festival, a month-long celebration of art and creativity that has become a staple in Pittsburgh. “It’s like a giant floating smile,” said one spectator, her eyes wide with wonder. “It’s impossible not to be happy when you see it.” The ducky, created by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman, has traveled to cities worldwide, bringing a touch of lightheartedness and whimsy to urban landscapes. In Pittsburgh, it served as a symbol of resurgence and the city’s vibrant arts scene. Mayor Bill Peduto welcomed the rubbery giant, calling it “a testament to the transformative power of art.” He noted that the ducky would become a temporary landmark, attracting visitors and reminding locals of the city’s playful and imaginative spirit. As the sun began to set, the ducky’s glow intensified, casting a warm and inviting aura on the waterfront. People gathered on boats, bridges, and sidewalks, eager to catch a glimpse of the extraordinary sight. For the next few days, the Giant Rubber Ducky will float serenely along the Monongahela River, spreading smiles and reminding Pittsburghers that even in the heart of an industrial city, there’s always room for a little bit of magic.