4-H Duck Race

Quack Quack the Ducks are Back!

Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County is proud to announce that the 4-H Duck Race will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 11am-4pm. Ducks will drop at 2pm at Cascadilla Falls, and the finish line is just past Thompson Park.

Join us to watch up to 3,000 bright yellow rubber ducks tumble over the Cascadilla Creek falls at the Cornell Botanic Gardens' Cascadilla Gorge Trail then bob down the creek in a frantic and fabulous race to the CCE Tompkins on Willow Avenue. Take a chance on a duck and win GREAT PRIZES if your duck is among the first to cross the finish line! Enjoy refreshments, entertainment, and activities for kids all afternoon long,

<b>THIS YEAR'S RACE WILL TAKE PLACE AT THOMPSON PARK.</b> This is the triangle shaped park by Gimme! Coffee on N. Cayuga St. This means that the finish line has been moved up just a little bit closer to the park as well.

Need not be present to win!

*Expanded family activities with new games, hands-on demos, and kid-friendly adventures

*A vendor market showcasing talented local makers and small businesses

*Live entertainment throughout the day to keep the energy high

*Animal encounters and interactive learning experiences

*Rural Youth Services Cardboard Boat Regatta

*Compost Fair

*And of course… the iconic drop of thousands of bright yellow ducks racing down Cascadilla Creek!

The Duck Race is one of our community’s most beloved traditions, and every duck chance purchased directly supports 4-H youth programs in Tompkins County—providing hands-on learning, outdoor education, leadership development, and meaningful opportunities for young people.

We are so grateful for the incredible support shown at past Duck Races, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for an even more exciting, expanded, and joy-filled event in 2026.

Are you a business that wants to sponsor the Duck Race?

Our success depends on sponsors like you!

Last updated April 20, 2026