The Hottest Fundraiser of the Summer (Literally)

Summer is the most popular season for duck races — and for good reason. School's out, families are looking for activities, and the waterways are perfect. But summer races come with unique considerations. Here's how to beat the heat and have the best event of the season.

Timing Is Everything

• Schedule for morning (9-11 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid peak heat

• June and early July tend to work best — late July and August can be brutally hot in many regions

• Avoid competing with Fourth of July week, local festivals, and school vacation dates

• Saturday mornings work great — people haven't started weekend activities yet

Beat the Heat

• Provide shade structures: tents, canopies, and umbrellas throughout the event

• Set up multiple water stations with free ice water for all attendees

• Include misting stations or sprinkler areas (kids love these!)

• Remind volunteers to apply sunscreen and take breaks in the shade

• Have a first aid station ready for heat-related issues

Summer-Specific Revenue Opportunities

• Ice cream and cold beverage vendors — they'll sell out!

• Water gun or splash zone activities for kids

• Sunscreen and hat merchandise with your event branding

• Partnership with local pools or splash parks for cross-promotion

The Summer Audience Advantage

Summer duck races benefit from maximum potential attendance:

• Families with kids out of school — your largest demographic

• Summer tourists and visitors boosting your numbers

• Longer daylight hours allowing flexible scheduling

• Summer camps and day programs looking for field trip destinations

A summer duck race in a lakefront community sold 9,200 ducks and drew over 6,000 spectators. The beach-party atmosphere with waterside activities made it the most-attended community event of the year.

Summer Planning Essentials

• Book your venue early — summer waterfront spots fill up fast

• Secure permits well in advance — summer is peak event season for municipalities

• Plan for mosquitoes in evening events — bug spray stations are a thoughtful touch

• Have a severe weather plan — summer storms can roll in quickly

Summer and duck races are a match made in fundraising heaven. Derby Duck Races will help you navigate the seasonal considerations and create the ultimate summer event. Let's make a splash!