Mad River Valley Rotary preps for Great Duck Race on Sept. 6

August 23, 2026 | By Waterbury Roundabout 

Mad River Valley Rotary is gearing up for its 2026 Great Duck Race, set to take place on Sunday, Sept. 6. The annual event will involve a large flock of little plastic ducks racing down the Mad River with the goal of surpassing last year's $26,000 raised to support the Mad River Valley community.

Volunteers get ducks ready to race. File photo courtesy of Mad River Valley Rotary

The race will be held from Lareau Park, along Vermont Route 100, in Waitsfield. Race committee Chair Doug Reid emphasized the event’s dual purpose: “This event is a blast for everyone, but it’s also the Rotary’s biggest fundraising event of the year. Community needs are growing, and we’re committed to doing more to keep the Mad River Valley thriving,” he said. 

Enter a single duck into the race for $5 or five for $20. Prizes will be $1,000 for first prize, $500 for second prize, $250 for third, and $50 each for places fourth through tenth.

In addition, for the third year, the Rotary is offering the Mad Duck 100, which features a limited field of 100 ducks for $100 each with just one grand prize of $1,500.

Race proceeds after paying out prizes will support Rotary’s community initiatives that address issues including food insecurity, affordable childcare, education and the arts.

To participate, adopt a duck at the Farmers Market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to1 p.m. at the Waitsfield Farmers Market, outside Mehuron’s Market on Fridays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., or anytime before the race using this form online. 

The Great Duck Race is more than just the duck race on the river. The event begins at 2 p.m. with activities including a magic show and refreshments. And a highlight of the event is helping Rotary volunteers retrieve the ducks after they cross the finish line.

Find more information about the race and how to participate, as well as how to join the Rotary at mrvrotary.org.