This might be one of the most unique summer events happening in Wichita. Exploration Place is hosting the Wichita Duck Race on Friday, June 12, where thousands of rubber ducks will race down the river for a chance to win big prizes, including a $10,000 grand prize.
The concept is simple and honestly pretty fun. You “adopt” a duck, then watch it race live along the river while everyone cheers from the riverfront. The best part is that every duck adoption helps support hands-on science education and experiences at Exploration Place.
Wichita Duck Race at Exploration Place
Duck adoptions start at just $10, which gives you a chance to win $10,000 while also supporting one of Wichita’s best Family Attractions. I can’t even imagine seeing thousands of rubber ducks racing down the Arkansas River.
Even if you do not win, it is still a fun night out because the event continues with a Free RiverFlix Outdoor Movie showing of The Mighty Ducks after sunset at the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater.
How The Duck Race Will Work:
- Adopt a duck. Each duck is assigned a unique number, and that number is your entry into the race.
- In a live river race, the first duck across the finish line wins $10,000.
- All ducks will be dropped into the river at the same time from the banks of the amphitheater.
- The ducks will follow a designated race route, ending at the finish line near the west side of the riverbank, north of the 1st Street Bridge.
So for the price of a duck, you are getting:
• Entry into the duck race
• Chance to win $10,000
• Fun riverfront atmosphere
• Free outdoor movie afterward
• Supporting Exploration Place programs
Duck Adoption Options:
• Individual Duck – 1 duck for $10
• Quack Pack – 3 ducks for $25
• Half-Dozen Dash – 6 ducks for $50
• Lucky 13 Flock – 13 ducks for $100
• Flock Frenzy – 70 ducks for $500
• Duck Dynasty – 150 ducks for $1,000
Only 10,000 ducks are available, so once they are gone, they are gone.
A few things to know:
- You don’t need to be present to win.
- You must be 18+ to purchase a duck or claim a prize.
- All prizes are subject to verification. Taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the winner.
- Official Rules apply (click here to view them)
Wichita Duck Event
Date: Friday, June 12, 2026 (Doors Open at 6 pm. Race is at 6:30)
Location: Exploration Place Riverfront & Wichita Foundation Amphitheater
Movie Following the Race: The Mighty Ducks
Cost: Duck adoptions start at $10
