Duck derby! 💛

You know, after sharing about our family's duck derby tradition, I realized some of you might be wondering, 'What exactly is a duck derby?' It's such a unique event, and I'd love to spill the beans on why we look forward to it every year! At its heart, a duck derby, or rubber duck race, is usually a community event where thousands of numbered rubber ducks are released into a body of water – often a river or a stream – and float their way to a finish line. Each duck often corresponds to a ticket purchased by someone, and the owners of the first ducks to cross the finish line win prizes! What's really cool is that most duck derbies are organized by charities or local organizations as fundraisers. So, while you're having a blast watching those little yellow guys (and girls, like our Alice and Ariel!) bobbing down the water, you're also contributing to a good cause. It adds such a wonderful layer of meaning to the fun. The 'race' itself is usually quite a sight! Imagine hundreds, sometimes thousands, of bright yellow ducks creating a moving carpet on the water. There's typically a starting point where all the ducks are released at once, sometimes from a big truck or even a crane! And then, everyone gathers along the banks, cheering their ducks on. It's pure excitement, especially trying to spot your duck in the crowd. Sometimes, strong currents or even a little bit of wind can add to the drama, creating different 'heats' or groups of ducks moving faster. Even if your duck isn't in the lead 'HEAT', it's still a thrilling experience! If you're thinking of joining one, my biggest tip is to embrace the spirit of it! Decorating your duck beforehand, like we do, makes it so much more personal. We use waterproof paints and tiny accessories. It’s a fantastic pre-race activity for kids and adults alike. And even if your duck doesn't win the grand prize, just being part of the community cheering, feeling the summer breeze, and maybe grabbing a celebratory donut afterward (our favorite part!) makes for unforgettable memories. It's not just about the race; it's about the shared experience and the joy it brings. So next time you see a local duck derby advertised, I highly recommend checking it out – it's a truly heartwarming way to spend a day!