Get ready, because one of Estes Park’s most beloved events is back! The Great Estes Park Duck Race returns on May 3rd, 2025, and it's bigger, better, and more exciting than ever before. This annual tradition has been floating along for 36 years, raising over $3 million for local organizations and creating memories for thousands of visitors and residents alike. If you’ve never experienced the thrill of the Duck Race, this is the year to join in!
The Legacy of the Duck Race
For over 3 decades, the Duck Race has been a vital fundraiser for local causes, with participating charities keeping the majority of the proceeds from duck adoptions. For many of these organizations, this race is the largest fundraiser of the year. It's not only a fun event but also a true community effort, where the entire town comes together to support important causes. The race has helped raise over $3 million to fund local nonprofits, from wildlife preservation groups to community outreach programs. This long-standing tradition is proof of the power of community collaboration and the joy that comes from giving back.
How It Works
This year, Patrick Warburton (aka "Puddy" from Seinfeld) is bringing the fun with Warburton's Mountain Madness, in honor of The Great Estes Park Duck Race! Picture this: thousands of rubber ducks floating down the river, surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, with family activities, live music, and delicious food at every turn. It’s a weekend filled with laughter, charity, and unforgettable memories!
It all starts on May 2nd with a special kickoff reception at The Stanley Hotel, followed by the high-energy Burn the Ballroom concert. On May 3rd, get ready to “waddle” your way into fun with the Duck Waddle 5k—a quirky run where you’ll stretch your legs before the main event—The Great Estes Park Duck Race—takes center stage! For just $25, you can adopt a rubber duck and support local charities as they race down the river from Rockwell St. Bridge to the finish line at the Estes Park Visitors Center. The fastest ducks in each of the 5 heats will win cash and prizes, with the winners moving on to the grand finale for the ultimate prize. While you don’t need to be present to win, we encourage you to join in the fun and take part in all the exciting weekend activities!
Later that evening, Patrick Warburton himself will take the stage for a night of comedy with two shows at The Stanley Hotel—one at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo, there’s something for everyone!
Bonus! When you adopt a duck for $25, your entry also includes a ticket to see Burn the Ballroom at the Stanley Hotel on Friday, May 2nd, at 6:30 p.m. Normally a $40 ticket at the door, your duck adoption is your ticket to the show!
2025’s Splash: All the New Fun at the Duck Race:
- New and Improved: 5 exciting heats of racing ducks!
- Warburton’s Mountain Madness Weekend: Integrated with the Duck Race, including a special kickoff event on May 2nd with music by Burn the Ballroom and a special appearance by Patrick Warburton.
- Comedy Night with Patrick Warburton: To close off the weekend, Patrick Warburton will have two comedy shows on May 3rd—one at 7 p.m. and the second at 9 p.m.
- Grand Finale: Winners of the 5 heats will race in the grand finale for ultimate prizes.
- Family-Friendly Fun: On May 3rd, enjoy the Duck Duck Jeep Rally, live music, food, and activities for all ages.
The Race Route
Start: The Duck Drop begins at the Rockwell St. Bridge.
Stop 1: Watch the race near River Side Plaza, where the plaza will transform into a kid’s zone with obstacle courses, bounce houses, face painting, and more. Kids can even decorate their own duck for a mini race and win a free ice cream cone!
Stop 2: At Benbrook Plaza, find wildlife groups, music performances, and the Rocky Mountain Channel, hosted by Claire Molle.
Final Stop: As you make your way toward the finish line at the Estes Park Visitor Center, enjoy local restaurants and shops that are offering special perks for anyone who has adopted a duck!
The Great Estes Park Duck Race is more than just a race—it’s a full weekend of fun, family activities, and a celebration of everything that makes Estes Park special.
