Aflac Celebrates 25 Years of Spreading Holiday Cheer with its Iconic Duck

Aflac’s Commitment to Community: 25 Years of the Holiday Duck

For twenty-five years, Aflac has spread joy during the holiday season with its beloved Holiday Duck collectible. This year marks a significant milestone as the company introduces the 2026 Aflac Holiday Duck, a plush symbol of generosity specifically designed to bring comfort and support to children battling cancer and blood disorders. Since the program's inception in 2001, Aflac has donated nearly $4.7 million through the net proceeds of these iconic ducks.

The Aflac Holiday Duck has become a cherished tradition for American families, with many parents proudly showcasing their collections over the years. The 2026 edition is particularly eye-catching, sporting a cozy, winter-ready look. Dressed in a vibrant green hooded puffy vest trimmed with white faux fur, this year’s duck also features festive accents like a red-and-white candy cane and a commemorative ribbon emphasizing the 25 years of giving.

Aflac's commitment to community support is evident in its long-standing philanthropic efforts towards pediatric oncology and hematology. Each year, the funds raised from Holiday Duck sales benefit hospitals that specialize in treating children with these challenging conditions. Specifically, the donations go to the Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation Inc., which complements the insurance giant's broader commitment to enhancing pediatric health initiatives across the country.

Aflac’s chairman and CEO, Dan Amos, emphasized the significance of this tradition by stating, "The Aflac Holiday Duck has helped us become a leader in the insurance industry and a household name. But more importantly, it has become a vital element of our philanthropic program — giving back to families facing some of life's toughest challenges."

Further adding to this commitment, Aflac, along with its agents and employees, has contributed over $200 million to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta since 1995. This collaborative effort showcases the power of corporate responsibility in promoting children's health and well-being.

Kerry Hand, president of the Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation, remarked, "For 25 years, the Aflac Holiday Duck has transformed holiday giving into meaningful support for families. This year, we celebrate not just the tradition itself, but also the incredible generosity of our customers, employees, and supporters. Together, we have made a lasting difference in communities nationwide."

The 2026 Aflac Holiday Duck is available while supplies last and comes in two sizes — a 6-inch size priced at $14 and a larger 10-inch version for $23. Fans of the program can purchase these adorable collectibles through the Aflac Childhood Cancer website.

FAQs About the Holiday Duck

What is the 2026 Aflac Holiday Duck?
The 2026 edition is a plush collectible that marks Aflac's 25th-anniversary of the program. It features a charming winter outfit and festive decorations.

How much money has the Holiday Duck program raised?
The program has raised nearly $4.7 million to support children's hospitals and initiatives aiding those with cancer and blood disorders.

Where can I buy the 2026 Holiday Duck?
The duck is available for purchase at Aflac's website while supplies last.

Does Aflac support pediatric cancer initiatives beyond the Holiday Duck?
Yes, Aflac has a heritage of supporting childhood cancer initiatives over the past 30 years through various funding, partnerships, and advocacy programs. This includes the award-winning My Special Aflac Duck® program, which provides comforting robotic companions to children with cancer.

In summary, the Aflac Holiday Duck serves as a symbol of hope, generosity, and community support. As they celebrate a quarter-century of this endearing tradition, Aflac reinforces its commitment to bringing cheer and assistance to those in need, making every holiday season just a bit brighter for families navigating difficult times.