San Antonio Duck Derby — May 9, 2026 at Pearl
A New San Antonio River Tradition
The San Antonio Duck Derby brings thousands of rubber ducks to Pearl for a fun day of family entertainment, great food, live music, and a race you have to see to believe. Every duck adoption supports local charities, and the fastest ducks earn exciting prizes. This is your city, your river, and your chance to be part of something fun — and something good.
A Day of Fun for the Whole Family
Beyond the race itself, Pearl will be packed with live entertainment, kids' activities, and good food — all free and open to the public.
DJ Entertainment
All afternoon
Cordero Flamenco
Live performance
Daniel Miller Band
Live music
Face Painting
For the kids
Balloon Artists
Roving
Story Time
with Ms. Anastasia
Magicians
Throughout the day
Merchandise
Proceeds to charity
🍴 Food & Drink
Bites & beverages from Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery and La Gloria, available for purchase.
🛍️ Duck Merch
Duck-themed gear available on-site — every dollar goes back to our nonprofit partners.
Know Before You Go
Everything you need for race day — show up, find parking, grab a bite, watch the ducks fly.
Where exactly
The Amphitheatre at Pearl, near La Gloria and Hotel Emma. The race runs along the San Antonio River.
Parking
Closest is the Koehler Garage, plus additional lots throughout the Historic Pearl property. Allow extra time.
Cost
Free & open to the public. No tickets, no RSVP. Just show up and adopt a duck if you haven't already.
Food & Drink
On-site purchases from Southerleigh and La Gloria. Bring cash or card.
How to Participate
Whether you adopt a duck, rally a team, or become a sponsor, every bit of support helps our charities make a bigger splash in San Antonio.
Meet Our Charities
Every duck adoption supports local organizations making a real difference in San Antonio. Here are the charities racing for your support this year.
Snack Pak 4 Kids SA
Snack Pak 4 Kids fights weekend hunger by sending food-insecure students home every Friday with backpacks filled with nutritious snacks across San Antonio schools.
SNIPSA
SNIPSA is an all-volunteer rescue organization saving dogs and cats from high-kill shelters, providing medical care and foster homes until they find permanent families.
Kingdom for Kids
Kingdom for Kids transforms underutilized spaces into vibrant, safe playgrounds for children in underserved San Antonio neighborhoods.
Win Big!
1st Grand Prize
$2,500 Visa Gift Card
The fastest duck in the flock wins the biggest splash! Your lucky rubber duck could paddle its way to this grand prize.
Second Place
Ultimate Pearl Experience
- One-night stay at Hotel Emma
- Breakfast for two at Supper
- Reservation & welcome champagne at Sternewirth
- And more!
Third Place
$1,000 Visa Gift Card
Even the third duck across the finish line earns a serious reward. That's one speedy quacker!
Other Prizes
Free Year of Whataburger
Enjoy Whataburger all year long with this fan-favorite bundle valued at $399! The "Whataburger for a Year" basket includes 52 free Whataburger coupons (one for every week!), plus exclusive branded swag like an LED sign, hat, golf balls, socks, and sunglasses. You'll also score a 40oz striped tumbler, can holder, and both Fancy and Spicy ketchup — everything you need to show off your Whataburger pride in style.
More prizes to be announced — stay tuned!
Get in Touch
Have questions about the Duck Derby? Want to learn more about sponsorship opportunities? We'd love to hear from you!