News & Stories

The competition was fast and furious (by turtle standards, at least) as our racing turtles vied for the coveted "Grandest Turtle of All" title during the 30th annual University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital Turtle Derby on June 23.

Hundreds of spectators turned out to cheer for their favorite turtles or participate in one of many fun activities stationed around the Masonic Children's Hospital plaza. Events included a dunk tank, face-painting, a photo booth, games with prizes and other entertainment. 

The Turtle Derby, which is free and open to the public, is a fundraising event that helps provide many of the extras that make our children's hospital a healing place for our patients and families. Past events have funded the purchase of hearing aid support supplies, end-of-life memory-making activities, books, anxiety reducing toys and items for our pediatric clinics, musical instruments, artwork for our patient rooms and a variety of other items used directly by our patients and families.

Scroll down to see more photos from the event, or check out our photo album on the Masonic Children's Hospital Facebook page!