The ducks are back!
After being postponed during Fourth in Fredericksburg due to extreme summer heat, one of our community’s favorite traditions is making its return as part of the first-ever Quacktoberfest on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Join the City of Fredericksburg and Friends of the Rappahannock over 2,000 rubber ducks race down the Rappahannock River in a colorful, family-friendly competition. Cheer on your lucky duck for a chance to win fantastic prizes while enjoying an afternoon of fall fun.
The Rubber Ducky Derby begins at 3:00 p.m.
Duck adoptions are $5 each, and every duck has a chance to cross the finish line first. But don’t wait! Duck adoptions are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.
Adopt your duck today: https://riverfriends.org/product/fxbg-rubber-ducky-2026/
The Rubber Ducky Derby is just one part of Quacktoberfest, a FREE community festival featuring carnival rides, live music, local vendors, fall activities, and Movie in the Park with a showing of Hocus Pocus at dusk.
Your Duck Makes a Difference
Proceeds from the Rubber Ducky Derby benefit:
Friends of the Rappahannock – Protecting and restoring the Rappahannock River for future generations.
The City’s FUNd Parks Fund – Supporting improvements to Fredericksburg’s parks, expanding recreational opportunities, and creating welcoming outdoor spaces for everyone.
Adopt a duck, cheer from the riverbank, and help make a splash for two great causes while celebrating a brand-new Fredericksburg fall tradition!
