Renton community comes together for annual Rubber Ducky Derby

Renton community comes together for annual Rubber Ducky Derby | Photos

See photos from the annual tradition.

By Perris Larson For the Reporter • July 30, 2025 1:42 pm

Since 1992, the Rubber Ducky Derby has been a staple part of Renton River Days. The sight of a thousand yellow rubber ducks floating down the Cedar River has families cheering from the Houser Street Bridge, families walking proudly with their rubber-duck themed ensemble from the sides of the river, and a few people wading knee deep in the water to get a better look. Over a thousand ducks, but only the first six that make it to the finish line can be winners.

According to Rotary member Michael O’Halloran, the derby raises close to $20,000. All the money raised goes to local charities such as Family First Community Center, Coats for Kids and Teachers of the Month, where the Rotary gives $250 to one teacher for classroom supplies.

This year, after a slight delay caused by a couple canoeing in the area where the derby was held, the net of ducks dropped upstream, covering the river in thousands of yellow spots as they floated under the Renton Library.

Marcie Palmer, a former member of the Renton City Council, has been attending the derby with her family every year, committed to continuing the tradition and taking the opportunity to put her rubber duck earrings on display.

“We love it. It just brings the community together,” Palmer said. “Where else can you see thousands of ducks float down a river?”

After the chaotic process of catching the ducks in the net, the first six are taken to the fire station by Rotary Treasurer Lora Ueland and Mayor Armondo Pavone to determine the winners. Out of the 4,009 tickets that were sold, Keke Reese Monroe placed first, winning the ultimate prize of $1,500. Cristhal Bennett placed second, Ashley Juliano in third, Erika Bliss in fourth, Charles Pham in fifth and Kim-Khánh Văn in sixth.