The 2025 Volunteers for Literacy Dec-a-Ducks Contest brought a delightful splash of imagination to Habersham County, as community groups, businesses, and schools competed to transform plain duck statues into dazzling literary and movie-inspired masterpieces. This annual event, a cherished local tradition, highlights creativity while supporting literacy programs in the area.
This year’s entries were nothing short of spectacular, with participants drawing inspiration from beloved books, movies, fairy tales, and more. Judges and the public had their work cut out for them choosing winners among such fantastic designs.
Top Honors and Crowd Favorites
Hazel Grove Elementary stole the show, earning First Place Best All Around with their enchanting duck transformation of The Wizard of Oz. Their detailed and whimsical entry wowed both judges and attendees alike.
Clarkesville Veterinary Hospital claimed the coveted First Place People’s Choice with their spooky and humorous Beetlejuice-themed duck, cleverly named “Betelgeuse.” The design also earned 2nd Place Best Adult Book/Movie, proving to be a crowd-pleaser and a critical favorite.
My Georgia Credit Union’s “Poppy,” inspired by a children’s fairy tale, took home 1st Place in the Children’s Fairy Tale/Book/Movie category and 2nd Place People’s Choice, demonstrating the community’s love for charm and storytelling.
Creative Excellence Across Categories
Fairview Elementary School’s “Violet Beauregarde,” a vibrant nod to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, took 3rd Place People’s Choice and 2nd Place Most Artistic, showing off the students’ flair for design and color.
Lowe’s made a splash with “Bill,” earning 1st Place Best Business-Themed Duck, impressing judges with a clever nod to the tools of their trade.
Sutton Tire’s “Waddles Your Hometown Tire Duck” received 1st Place Best Novice DAD (Duck Artist Designer), a special recognition for newcomers that left a lasting impression.
Morito Scovill’s action-packed duck “Quacker Chan’s Day at the Mountain Laurel Festival” delighted attendees and earned 1st Place Most Creative, a tribute to both martial arts and local culture.
Renew Dental’s pun-tastic “Cluck Norris” delivered knockout artistry, earning 1st Place Most Artistic, while NE GA Chiropractic Spine Center brought classic literature to life with “Mr. Sherlock Holmes,” securing 1st Place Adult Book/Movie.
Finally, Peach State Federal Credit Union dazzled with “Elphie Duck,” a nod to Wicked, and was honored with the prestigious 1st Place Director’s Choice award.
The Deco Duck Contest continues to be a testament to the power of community, creativity, and a shared love for stories. Through colorful designs and imaginative themes, each duck entry serves not only as a work of art but also as a reminder of the importance of literacy in building vibrant, informed communities. Congratulations to all the winners and participants who made this year’s contest unforgettable!
Hazel Grove Elementary’s “Wizard of Oz” First Place Best All Around
Clarkesville Veterinary Hospital – “Betelgeuse” First Place People’s Choice; 2nd Place Best Adult Book/Movie
My Georgia Credit Union – “Poppy” 1st Place Children’s Fairy Tale/Book/Movie: 2nd Place People’s Choice
Fairview Elementary School “Violet Beauregarde” 3rd Place People’s Choice; 2nd Place Most Artistic
Lowe’s “Bill” First Place Best Business-Themed
Sutton Tire – “Waddles Your Hometown Tire Duck” First Place Best Novice DAD
Morito Scovill – “Quacker Chan’s Day at the Mountain Laurel Festival” First Place Most Creative
Renew Dental “Cluck Norris” 1st Place Most Artistic
NE GA Chiropractic Spine Center – “Mr. Sherlock Holmes” FirstPlace Adult Book/Movie
Peach State Federal Credit Union “Elphie Duck” 1st Place Director’s Choice
