The excitement is building as Volunteers for Literacy prepares to launch the 14th Annual Duck Race, a beloved community tradition that combines fun, friendly competition, and a powerful mission: promoting literacy for all ages.
Set to take place on Saturday, May 17, at 2 p.m., the Duck Race invites locals to “adopt” rubber ducks that will race down the waterway in pursuit of the finish line—and a chance at fabulous prizes. Each duck is tagged with a unique number, and the fastest ducks win rewards donated by generous local sponsors.
The race is held each year during the Mountain Laurel Festival in Sam Pitts Park in Clarkesville, Georgia. Prior to the launching of the ducks, VFL hosts a Family Fun Fest. This year marks the 3rd annual Family Fun Fest. It begins at 12 p.m. and lasts until 2 p.m. when the race starts. There will be activities for all ages including games, bouncy houses, ax throwing, and so much more. It will be fun for the entire family.
All proceeds from the race benefit Volunteers for Literacy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving reading and writing skills in the community. The group provides one-on-one tutoring, English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, family literacy programs, GED preparation, and workforce readiness training. The funds raised from the Duck Race support the organization’s free educational services and help provide books, learning materials, and trained volunteer tutors.
“We are thrilled to be hosting the Duck Race for the 14th year in a row,” said Phylecia Wilson, Executive Director of Volunteers for Literacy. “It’s a joyful event that brings the community together while supporting a cause that touches every generation. Literacy is the key to opportunity, and this event helps open those doors.”
Over the years, the Duck Race has grown in popularity, attracting families, businesses, and civic groups who purchase ducks in flocks to show their support. Many participants decorate their ducks or wear duck-themed costumes to enhance the festivities.
This year’s top prize is $1000 for First Place, $500 for Second Place, $250 for Third Place. There are additional prizes for runners-up. Ducks can be adopted for a donation of $5 for one duck, $20 for 5 ducks, and $100 for 25 ducks. All contributions go directly toward literacy programs.
Judy Sneller, VFL board member said, “Come by, get your ducks in the race by buying tickets, and check out our ducky bucket hats selling for $5 each. We also have duck earrings, and some really cute reading ducks that kids will love.”
Sneller, who co-chairs the 8th Annual VFL Dec-a-Duck Contest, also invites the community to get involved by casting their vote for the “People’s Choice” award. “We’ve got nearly 50 large ducks, all uniquely and creatively decorated by our sponsors and partners, competing for various honors like Most Creative, Best Children’s Book/Fairy Tale/Literature/Movie/TV Series-Themed Duck, Best All Around, and Best Business-Themed Duck,” she said.
“While a panel of judges will determine winners in nine award categories before the festival, the People’s Choice winner is chosen by the public. Folks can vote by visiting our Facebook page—Volunteers for Literacy of Habersham County—and liking or loving their favorite ducks. Online votes will be combined with in-person votes on the 17th to determine the winner.”
Community members are encouraged to get involved by adopting ducks, volunteering at the event, or simply coming out to cheer on the racers. As the rubber ducks race to the finish, they carry with them the hopes of a more literate, empowered community.
Tickets will be available for purchase at the Mountain Laurel Festival on May 17, 2025, where they will be sold at the Volunteers for Literacy booth until 1:30 p.m. The booth will be located on East Water Street.
Tickets also will be available at Elizabeth & Company Resale Treasures, the Clarkesville Library, the Cornelia Library, and from any VFL Board Member.
To adopt a duck or learn more about the event, visit https://www.vflhabersham.com/duck-race.html
