The Summit Foundation is thrilled to announce the 37th Annual Great Rubber Duck Race, taking place on August 31, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Blue River Plaza in Breckenridge. This year’s race holds special significance as it marks the Foundation’s 40th anniversary, commemorating four decades of helping Summit County thrive.

Since its inception, the Great Rubber Duck Race has become a beloved tradition, drawing thousands of participants and spectators each year. Families, businesses, and individuals alike join in the fun, eagerly awaiting the sight of thousands of rubber ducks floating down the Blue River. All ducks are gathered at the end of the race and used year after year. 

"The Great Rubber Duck Race is a true reflection of the generosity and fun nature of Summit County," said Jeanne Bistranin, Executive Director of the Summit Foundation. "As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we are reminded of the incredible community spirit that has enabled us to support countless initiatives and improve the lives of our residents. We invite everyone to join us for a day of fun, excitement, and giving back."

Businesses duke it out for an array of awesome prizes for their team in the Business Battle Duck Race presented by Vail Health. The top prizes include a Via Ferrata trip for the staff of the winning business, courtesy of A Basin, plus a variety of prizes from local business perfect for team building. The deadline to enter the Vail Health Business Battle Duck Race is August 30.  

The Kids Duck Dash is presented by FirstBank and open to kids 12 and younger; entry is $5 per duck, awarding prizes like loveys, sweet treats, and gift cards to the local toy store. With the prizes and fun, this race is sure to bring smiles to every boy and girl.  The race starts at 2 pm on Saturday, but racers do not have to be present to win. 

And last but not least, the Great Rubber Duck Race presented by Breckenridge Grand Vacations will award the fastest duckie the grand prize of $2,000! Additional great prizes include ski passes, restaurant gift certificates, spa certificates, and more! A contribution of $5 enters a duck in this race; or for more bang for your buck, purchase a golden flock (26 ducks) for $100; a baker’s dozen (13 ducks) for $50, or a six quack (6 ducks) for $25.

SPONSORS:

The main event sponsors of the Duck Race cover the logistical expenses, ensuring that every $5 duck can directly benefit the community. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our Duck Race sponsors:

  • Breckenridge Grand Vacations: Presenting Sponsor
  • 1st Bank: Kids Duck Race Sponsor
  • Vail Health: Business Battle Duck Race Sponsor 
  • Riverside Sponsors: iFurnish, Xcel Energy, Climax Molybdenum, Epic Promise, Gorman & Co, Rockridge Builders and Mountain Majestic Movers. 
  • Red, White and Blue Fire Department also helps to get all ducks in the river.

In addition to these key sponsors, we are immensely grateful to the hundreds of businesses who provide prizes for our speedy duck winners. Their support exemplifies the spirit of community collaboration that helps us all soar. From ski passes to toys from Peek-a-Boo Toys and Stork & Bear Co., every donation matters. We couldn’t be more appreciative of our business community's continued support of this cherished event.

 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: While the rubber ducks get ready to race following a strict training program including a diet consisting of Blue River seaweed, volunteers are needed in a variety of areas from now until race day – August 31.  Find your inner quackiness and sign up to volunteer today. 

HISTORICAL REFERENCE:

Did you know that in 1984, the Great Rubber Duck Race was originally run by the Adams Street Grill Restaurant and benefited the Summit Foundation? The race saw less than 1,000 ducks and ran from one side of the Dredge boat to the other, remembering that this was before the Blue River restoration and even the Riverwalk Center. Today, the event has grown to feature three races with over 17,000 ducks participating, symbolizing the unity and generosity of our community.

This year, as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Summit Foundation, we reflect on the profound impact our organization has had on the community. Founded in 1984, the Foundation has awarded over $53 million in grants and scholarships, touching countless lives and fostering a brighter future for all residents of Summit County. The Great Rubber Duck Race has been a cornerstone event, showcasing the power of community support and engagement.

JOIN THE RACE:

Ducks can be purchased online at Summitraceduck.org or at various locations around town, including local farmers markets, the post office, FirstBank, iFurnish, Outer Range, and more. Look for QR codes displayed throughout Breckenridge for easy access to buy your ducks. There are so many ways to join the race, and while you don't have to be present on the 31st to win you do have to buy a duck.

We invite everyone to come out and join the fun, whether by sponsoring a duck, cheering on the racers, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere.