One of the Lowcountry’s most beloved spring traditions, the 19th Annual Charleston Duck Race, returns to Daniel Island Waterfront Park on Saturday, May 30, 2026, bringing thousands of families together for a free, festive day — and a signature moment when 30,000 bright yellow rubber ducks are dropped into the Wando River for a fast-paced, crowd-cheering race to the finish.
Hosted by the Charleston Area Rotary Clubs, the Charleston Duck Race has raised more than $3 million for local charities. This year’s goal is $225,000 to support 20+ Lowcountry nonprofits.
Community members can participate by adopting a duck for $10. The first duck across the finish line is the winner: $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second place, and five $1,000 prizes.
An all-volunteer group of impassioned Rotarians begins planning for the race in February, dedicating countless hours to securing sponsorships, promoting duck adoptions in public spaces, and engineering the duck drop and sizzle surrounding the day.
The race highlights a community commitment to giving with the mantra “service above self,” and supports local charities in sustaining their contributions to health, education, childhood development, and the overall well-being of the Low Country.
Adopt a duck online at $10 a duck, or ask how you can get involved by going to: www.CharlestonDuckRace.com
Event Details: Family Festival + Duck Drop
Charleston Duck Race Day Schedule
- Daniel Island Waterfront Park
- Saturday, May 30, 2026
- 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Free to attend (duck adoption required to win prizes)
The Duck Race is a family-friendly community festival featuring skill-based games and creative activities for all ages throughout the day. The official Duck Drop is expected around 1:00 p.m., depending on tides, wind, and weather conditions.
“The day is such a feel-good way to have a blast,” Conway added. “You just adopt a duck, bring your family, and join the fun — and you’re supporting Charleston charities at the same time.”
Where the Money Goes: 20+ Local Nonprofits
The Charleston Duck Race is Rotary’s largest annual fundraiser in the region, with proceeds supporting both local and global initiatives.
This year’s beneficiaries will include more than 20 nonprofits, among them:
- First Tee
- East Cooper Meals on Wheels
- Feeding of the Multitudes
- Girls on the Run
- Shifa Clinic
- The Rotary Club of Daniel Island Scholarship Program