Dive into the Fun: The KEN-Ducky Derby is an annual rubber duck race held in Louisville, Kentucky, as part of the Kentucky Derby Festival. Thousands of brightly colored rubber ducks are released into the Ohio River, racing towards the finish line for a chance to win some fantastic prizes. #KENDuckyDerby
The KEN-Ducky Derby
This years rubber duck race will be held on April 26, 2025.

More Than Just a Race
While the sight of thousands of ducks bobbing down the river is undeniably entertaining, the KEN-Ducky Derby serves a greater purpose. It’s a major fundraiser for Harbor House of Louisville, a non-profit organization that provides support and services for adults with disabilities. (Similar to old Great Knoxville Rubber Duck Race).
It is called the best Duck Race in Kentucky and is the official fundraiser for Harbor House of Louisville. Adopt a Duck! Help us empower individuals with disabilities and their families to lead fulfilled and productive lives.
How to Participate
- Adopt a Duck: You can purchase a rubber duck online or at various locations throughout Louisville. Each duck has a unique number.
- Watch the Race: The race takes place on the Ohio River, and you can watch the excitement from designated viewing areas along the waterfront.
- Cheer Your Duck On: Find your duck in the sea of yellow and cheer it on as it makes its way to the finish line.
- Win Prizes: The first-place duck wins a cash prize, and there are often other prizes awarded as well.
Beyond the Ducks
The KEN-Ducky Derby is more than just a duck race. It’s a community event that brings people together for a fun and exciting day. There are often other activities and entertainment available, making it a great event for the whole family.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and fun way to support a good cause, consider participating in the KEN-Ducky Derby. You might just find yourself cheering on your lucky duck to victory!
Yes, the Kentucky Derby horse race coincides with the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is an annual event that is held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. It is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old Thoroughbreds at a distance of one and a quarter miles. The race is known as “The Run for the Roses” because the winning horse is draped in a blanket of roses.
The Ken-Ducky Derby even uses a play on words from the Kentucky Derby. See it? Change the “T” to a “D”.
Please note: The specific details of the KEN-Ducky Derby, including dates, times, and locations, may vary from year to year. It’s always best to check the official KEN-Ducky Derby website for the most up-to-date information.
Rubber Duck Races

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Steve is a collector of rubber ducks. At SteveZ DuckZ, Steve will share off his rubber duck collection and share blog post relating to rubber ducks. If you love rubber ducks, please follow on social media or subscribe!
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