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The Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race

May 2, 2026

Join the fun at the Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race on Saturday, May 2, 2026, starting at 11:00 am! This exciting event will feature live music, a family-friendly fun run, and the iconic release of over 10,000 rubber ducks into Fall River. Since its inception in 1989, this cherished event has raised over $3.7 million for local charities, with each duck adoption supporting a variety of nonprofit organizations.

 

The Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race

Duck Race Drop 2024

Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00am

Get ready for one of the most beloved and family-friendly events in the Rockies, the Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race returns to downtown Estes Park in 2026! Every spring, thousands of bright yellow rubber ducks take to the rushing waters of the Fall River in a lively race that raises money for dozens of local nonprofits while delivering a full day of fun for visitors and locals alike.

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Estes Park, the Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race is one of the town’s most beloved community events. Participants “adopt” rubber ducks for a chance to win exciting prizes as the ducks splash their way downstream through the heart of downtown Estes Park. Thousands gather along the riverbanks and bridges to cheer on the race, creating a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of the mountain town.

In addition, there will be face painters, balloon twisters, local Estes Park musicians, and a jeep show (you pick the winners by voting with little ducks). Duck flights will take place at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm at Performance Park. The ducks swim through town to the Visitor Center. The final flight features 500 finishers vying for $10,000, $6,000, and $4,000 cash prizes, plus more than 300 prizes from our local merchants.

It’s the perfect way to experience Estes Park’s vibrant community while enjoying stunning views near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Visitors planning a spring getaway will find the Duck Race among the best events in Estes Park, combining scenic mountain charm with a meaningful cause. Proceeds from duck adoptions support dozens of charitable organizations across the Estes Valley, making every duck in the river part of something bigger.

Whether you’re adopting a duck, browsing local artisans, or simply enjoying a festive day by the river, the 2026 the Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race promises unforgettable fun for all ages. Don’t miss this iconic Colorado event that blends community, charity, and a whole lot of quacking excitement.

Plan your trip to Estes Park and be part of the 2026 Duck Race tradition!

Visit EPduckrace.org for more information.

Duck Race 2026

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Duck Waddle 5K

Duck Waddle 5k

Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 9:00am

This spring time foot race kick-starts the Estes Park Rotary Club’s DUCK RACE!

The DUCK WADDLE 5K race begins at east side of Estes Park Parking Structure. Each runner and walker will follow the scenic Lake Estes Trail counterclockwise to the finish line (west of the Lake Front Parking area on north side of Lake Estes). The DUCK WADDLE 5K foot race welcomes all abilities and those wanting to have a ton of fun! Strollers and friendly pets welcomed!

Run with us and you will automatically adopt a rubber Duck to float down the beautiful Fall River. The DUCK RACE is a major fundraiser for charities in Estes Park. With each Duck adoption, $23 will go towards a local charity of your choice. The Estes Park Running Club is one of those charity groups on the adoption form. Selecting the Estes Park Running Club will allow our group to receive funding and ability to disperse to local youth programs in Estes Park. You don’t have to RUN, to purchase a DUCK racer, use link below.