Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce Duck Race

Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce Duck Race returns to the Yantic River on Saturday, May 30, bringing one of the region’s most playful spring traditions back to Norwich for a full day of family activities, music, vendors, food, and thousands of rubber ducks racing toward the finish line. Hosted at Yantic Fire Department’s “Fireman’s Field,” the annual event blends community fundraising with shoreline-style festival energy as crowds gather along the riverbank to cheer on approximately 3,000 rubber ducks tumbling through the water at 1 p.m.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features children’s activities, games, crafters, dog adoption opportunities, and music from Soft Rock 106.5 throughout the afternoon. What began as a fundraiser has grown into one of the more recognizable family-friendly community events in the Norwich area, drawing residents together for an afternoon built around laughter, local organizations, and a little friendly competition on the river.

Attendees can adopt a racing duck for $5 for a chance to win prizes including a $1,000 grand prize, while also helping support local causes throughout the community. Proceeds from this year’s race benefit Norwich Bully Busters and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce, helping the event continue its mission of combining entertainment, community spirit, and local fundraising into one of eastern Connecticut’s more unique annual traditions.

2026 Title Sponsor:

• CorePlus Credit Union

2026 Sponsors:

• Dime Bank
• ServPro
• Ascend Bank
• Norwich Public Utilities
• Chelsea Groton Bank
• Scranton Chevy of Norwich

Event Details:

• Saturday, May 30, 2026
• Rain Date: June 6, 2026
• Yantic Fire Department “Fireman’s Field”
• 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Duck Race begins at 1:00 p.m.
• Duck adoptions: $5 each