Event Basics
What is the Ohio Rubber Duck Dash?
The Ohio Rubber Duck Dash is a family-friendly rubber duck race organized each spring by high school students in the Six District Compact EntrepreNEW Pathways program. It is a fully student-run business providing real-world experience in marketing, operations, and leadership.
What is the World's Largest Rubber Duck?
The World's Largest Rubber Duck is an inflatable artwork known as "Mama Duck." Standing over six stories tall (approximately 60 to 64 feet high), this giant duck travels the world as a public art installation. Created by artist Mark Burrows, it is often joined by a smaller companion, "Timmy Duck." Together, they spread joy and simple fun to millions of people, turning heads and bringing smiles wherever they go.
When and where is the 2026 Ohio Rubber Duck Dash?
The Duck Dash is part of a new three-day festival held in Downtown Cuyahoga Falls. The race will take place at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Cuyahoga Falls Amphitheater Stage.
What other events are part of the weekend?
Thursday, April 23: CFCSD All-City Art Walk Friday, April 24: Vendor Fair from 12 PM to 8 PM, Wing-Eating Contest at 6 PM on the amphitheater stageSaturday, April 25: Ohio Rubber Duck Dash at 1 PM, plus vendor fair and food trucks from 10 AM to 6 PM
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Answer Content
Duck Adoptions
How much does it cost to adopt a duck?
Each duck is a numbered entry in the race. You may choose from the following adoption bundles:
Solo Swimmer: 1 duck for $5
Quack Pack: 5 ducks for $20
Ducky Dozen: 12 ducks for $50
Jumbo Flock: 25 ducks for $100Mega Flock: 50 ducks for $200Golden Pond: 100 ducks for $375
How do I adopt a duck?
Ducks can be purchased online at www.ohiorubberduckdash.com or in person at the festival while supplies last.
Will I receive my duck in advance?
No. All ducks are pre-numbered and raced by the event organizers. Duck numbers will be emailed to participants the day before the race.
What do I get when I adopt a duck?
You receive a race entry in the form of a numbered rubber duck. If your duck wins, you receive a prize.
Can I keep my duck after the race?
No. Ducks are reused each year to ensure fairness and sustainability.
Can I register my duck under someone else’s name?
No. Ducks are registered under the name used at checkout. This helps ensure accuracy for tracking and prize distribution.
Do I need to be present to win?
No. Winners who are not present will be notified by email on Monday, April 28, 2026.
Will ducks be released in the river?
No. While the race was formerly held in the river, it now takes place on a 50-foot custom inflatable duck track to ensure environmental responsibility.
Event Logistics
How does the duck race work?
Adopted ducks are released in timed heats on the inflatable duck track. Winners from each heat qualify for the final round. Prizes are awarded to the top finishers in the final race.
Where can I park?
Free public parking is available throughout Downtown Cuyahoga Falls. A full parking map is available at www.downtowncf.com/map
Is the event kid-friendly?
Yes. The festival includes games, activities, music, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my pet?
No. Pets are not permitted in the vendor areas, amphitheater plaza, or during the Duck Dash and Wing-Eating Contest.
What if it rains?
The event takes place rain or shine. Severe weather updates will be shared on the event website and social media.
Will the race impact the environment?
Not at all. The new inflatable duck track replaces the river race to ensure environmental sustainability. No ducks are released into natural waterways.
I’m visiting from out of town. Where should I stay?
We recommend the Sheraton Suites Hotel, located on Front Street in Downtown Cuyahoga Falls.
Will ducks be released in the river?
No. While the race was formerly held in the river, it now takes place on a 50-foot custom inflatable duck track to ensure environmental responsibility.
Getting Involved
Can I volunteer at the event?
Yes. Volunteers are welcome and may assist with duck sales, race logistics, games, and clean-up. To sign up, email ekilgore@woodridge.k12.oh.us
Can my business sponsor the event?
Most sponsorships are currently sold out, but we are still accepting prize sponsors. To learn more, email ekilgore@woodridge.k12.oh.us
Is the event kid-friendly?
Yes. The festival includes games, activities, music, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my pet?
No. Pets are not permitted in the vendor areas, amphitheater plaza, or during the Duck Dash and Wing-Eating Contest.
Who benefits from the Ohio Rubber Duck Dash?
All proceeds support the Six District Compact EntrepreNEW Pathways program, which helps high school students gain real-world business experience.
Still have questions?
Contact us at ekilgore@woodridge.k12.oh.us
Visit www.ohiorubberduckdash.com for more information
We look forward to seeing you at the 2026 Ohio Rubber Duck Dash and Festival.
I’m visiting from out of town. Where should I stay?
We recommend the Sheraton Suites Hotel, located on Front Street in Downtown Cuyahoga Falls.
Will ducks be released in the river?
No. While the race was formerly held in the river, it now takes place on a 50-foot custom inflatable duck track to ensure environmental responsibility.
