Occoquan’s Annual Duck Splash Offers Squeaky Clean Fun

A playful summer tradition is set to return to Northern Virginia as the town of Occoquan prepares for its 18th annual Duck Splash, a lighthearted fundraiser that blends community spirit with a unique river race.

The event takes place on June 7 at 2 p.m. as part of the broader RiverFest & Craft Show weekend, bringing together families, visitors, and local supporters along the scenic Occoquan River.

A Community Fundraiser with a Twist

Organized by nonprofit Visit Occoquan, the Duck Splash invites participants to “adopt” a numbered rubber duck for $5. Each duck then joins hundreds of others in a race downstream along the river, creating a colorful and entertaining spectacle for spectators gathered along the waterfront.

Proceeds from the event help support community programs, educational initiatives, and preservation efforts in historic downtown Occoquan.

How the Duck Race Works

On race day, nearly 1,000 rubber ducks are released from the Route 123 bridge and carried by the current along the Occoquan River. Volunteers in kayaks follow the flow of the race, helping guide and collect the ducks at the finish line.

Spectators can watch from the riverbank as the small floating competitors make their way toward the finish, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and family-friendly.

Prizes for the Fastest Ducks

The first 10 ducks to reach the finish line earn prizes for their sponsors. The top prize is $500 for first place, while second through fifth place receive $100 each. Ducks finishing in sixth through tenth place earn $20 prizes.

A Beloved Local Tradition

According to Visit Occoquan, the Duck Splash has become a highlight of the RiverFest weekend, drawing enthusiastic crowds year after year.

“Nearly 1,000 rubber ducks will be dropped from the Route 123 bridge and race along the Occoquan River,” said Sarah Hitchcock Burzio of Visit Occoquan. “Our volunteer kayakers help round them up at the end. Kids and adults alike really enjoy watching the race.”

Part of RiverFest Weekend

The Duck Splash is one of several attractions during the RiverFest & Craft Show, a weekend event that celebrates local artisans, small businesses, and the historic charm of Occoquan.

For many visitors, the duck race has become a signature moment of the festival — a simple, joyful tradition that combines fundraising with community celebration.