Lucky Ducky Race Returns April 11 to Support Pace Center for Girls Manatee
Thousands of rubber ducks will once again take to the Manatee River this spring as the Lucky Ducky Race for Pace returns to the Bradenton Riverwalk on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
Now in its 17th year, the beloved community fundraiser supports Pace Center for Girls Manatee, an organization dedicated to helping girls build brighter futures through education, counseling, life skills training, and advocacy. The event has become one of the organization’s largest annual fundraisers and a signature community tradition.
During the race, more than 30,000 rubber ducks will be released into the Manatee River and float toward the finish line along the Riverwalk. Each duck represents a community member who has “adopted” a duck to support the cause. The first ducks to cross the finish line determine the prize winners.
Participants can adopt ducks online in several packages, starting at $5 for a single duck. Other options include a five-duck “Quack Pack” for $20, a flock of 30 ducks for $100, or a corporate “Very Important Duck” package that includes 125 entries and additional promotional opportunities.
The race also features major prizes. The grand prize winner will receive a two-year lease on a Jeep provided by Firkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, with a cash option available. Additional prizes include weekly dinner for two at Anna Maria Oyster Bar for a year, a $500 shopping spree at The Teal Turtle Boutique, and numerous other prizes donated by local businesses.
The event is held in partnership with the City of Bradenton and typically includes family-friendly activities, food vendors, and opportunities for the community to gather along the Riverwalk to cheer on their adopted ducks.
Funds raised through the Lucky Ducky Race directly support programs at Pace Center for Girls Manatee, which provides year-round academic instruction, counseling, and life skills training for middle and high school girls facing academic or personal challenges.
Community members can adopt ducks, form teams, or sponsor the event, helping Pace continue its mission of empowering girls to find their voice, achieve their potential, and build successful futures.
The 2026 Lucky Ducky Race for Pace is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bradenton Riverwalk. Participants do not need to be present to win, and winners will be announced after the race.
Residents interested in participating or adopting ducks can visit duckrace.com/manatee for more information.
