By Nikola Tzenov, photography by Nikola Tzenov
More than 1,000 rubber ducks floated toward the finish line in a family-friendly fundraiser called the “Rubber Duck Derby” hosted by Dream Big Union Bridge. Registered ducks were “adopted” online for $5 each, with multi-duck discounts available.
As the creek flowed beneath the Donald D. Wilson Walking Trail, the ducks slowly bobbed along before the top three crossed the finish line: Carrie Ferguson’s #985 duck claimed first place and a $250 prize, Angie Derr’s #734 placed second for $200, and David Sabo’s #103 finished third, earning $150.
Organizers also awarded additional prizes to six lucky random entrants. The derby was just one attraction among many at the festival, which ran from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Alongside the duck race, attendees enjoyed live bluegrass music from The Mayo Family Band and the rock group Payload; a Jeep Show & Shine hosted by Maryland’s Jeep Club; craft vendors; food trucks; raffles; children’s activities including a 70-foot inflatable obstacle course, petting zoo and barrel train; and an adult-only beer, wine and spirits garden featuring Elk Run Winery, Linganore Wine Cellars, Liquidity Aleworks and Rosie Cheeks Distillery.
Originally scheduled for June 7, the event was postponed due to high water levels in the creek. Organizers from Dream Big Union Bridge said the delay allowed more vendors and families to participate—solidifying the event’s role in promoting local businesses and community pride.
The day brought warm summer temperatures, but the combination of creekside shade, music and festive atmosphere ensured a comfortable afternoon for families and community members alike.
Dream Big Union Bridge, founded in 2017 by Brian Colussy and Cheri Thompson, is a local nonprofit focused on revitalizing the town through events, markets and infrastructure projects.
The annual Rubber Duck Derby is among the group’s flagship efforts, alongside its weekly farmers market and other community-centered initiatives.
Jay & Lynn Ruby
Connor McCarthy, Megan & Lisa Vanjoske
Rob Cline holds 1st Place Duck #985
Kelly & Dennis Strine
Duck Crossing Sign
Emma Frey, Madelyn Zorbach
Avery, Adaline & Abbie Carder
Cameron MacKenzie, Joe Lambert
Kathy Criser, Charles Tonkin
Sean Keegan, Joey Linn
Kathy Dempf Performs National Anthem
Jamal Foster, Jay Ruby, Ashley Hueg
1st Place Carrie Ferguson Duck
Hannah & Kelly Sundsvold
Ethan Brohawn, Emalie Jaramillo, Teagan Wootton, James Ebron
People Watching Duck Derby 2025
*Hover or click on the images above to view attendee names.
