SeeCalifornia.com

Have you ever seen a rubber duck race? These great fundraisers for special causes in California have received warm welcomes through the years, attracting large, enthusiastic crowds. So it’s just a little sad when you have to say goodbye to some of the biggest, best events, knowing they probably won’t be back.

Last year the Redding Ducky Derby (right photo) produced by Redding East Rotary bid farewell after a glorious 29-year run. They went out with a bang, having raised more than $4 million for youth development programs. 35,000 adopted ducks raced down the 200 yard stretch of the Sacramento River from under the Diestlehorst Bridge to the awaiting nets as the crowds lining the river banks cheered on. Like so many great causes, the volunteers who produced this massive event aged and weren’t able to sustain it while searching for others to take the helm. For their efforts, they deserve a salute!

Now this year the Huntington Beach Duck-a-thon (left photo) pulled the plug in a similar manner. The volunteers who produced the event for 28 years put their hearts and souls into it–some passed away and others moved on. Their dedication couldn’t be matched and as simple as that, the fundraiser providing free and affordable healthcare is no more, we’ve been told.

Papa Duck in his furry suit each year waddled his way down Main Street followed by a bright yellow loader filled with yellow and orange rubber ducks. The traffic on Pacific Coast Highway came to a stop as Papa Duck and his truck crossed the busy highway, heading for Huntington Beach Pier where thousands of ducks annually were dumped into the Pacific Ocean. The first ducks to swim to the shoreline became prize winners for their owners who got great gifts such as cash, TVs, etc.

If you love rubber duckies and ducky races, catch the fun at the Festival of Whales in Dana Point on March 7-8 and March 14-15, 2020. The Rubber Ducky Derby is one of dozens of family-friendly events at this two weekend fest which includes a parade.