The 47th Annual Great American Duck Race takes place in Deming, New Mexico, from August 20-23, 2026. This signature regional event features both wet and dry track duck racing with cash prizes for winners. Attendees can also participate in a community parade, visit a sprawling vendor market, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend.
Most festivities occur at McKinley Duck Park and around the Luna County Courthouse. The event serves as a significant gathering for Southern New Mexico, drawing thousands of visitors to celebrate a tradition nearly five decades in the making.
WHAT ARE THE EVENT DETAILS FOR THE 2026 DEMING DUCK RACE?
In short: Visit Deming for a four-day festival centered on live duck racing. The weekend includes a carnival, entertainment pavilion, local food vendors, hot air balloon mass ascension, a golf scramble, a car show, a parade, and other activities. Major racing events are held on Saturday and Sunday.
- Date: Thursday, August 20 to Sunday, August 23, 2026
- Location: McKinley Duck Park and various venues, Deming, NM
- Activities: Wet and dry duck races, the “Tournament of Ducks” parade, and many other exciting festival activities.
- Admission: Most park events are free to attend; fees apply for race entries and carnival rides.
- Prizes: Cash awards are given to the fastest ducks on both track types.
See and download the full schedule.
WHY ATTEND THE GREAT AMERICAN DUCK RACE?
- Regional Tradition: Participate in one of New Mexico’s most recognizable and long-running community festivals.
- Family Entertainment: The schedule includes activities for all ages, from children’s duck catching to evening live music.
- Economic Impact: The race supports local vendors and regional tourism, providing a platform for New Mexico creators and small businesses.
ATTEND THE 2026 DUCK RACE
The Great American Duck Race offers a unique look at rural New Mexico culture. Plan to arrive early on Saturday to secure a spot for the parade before the main racing heats begin at the park.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO THE DUCK RACES ACTUALLY WORK?
The Great American Duck Race features two distinct types of competition: wet tracks and dry tracks. On wet tracks, ducks swim through water-filled lanes toward a finish line. On dry tracks, ducks “race” on flat surfaces. Participants can rent a duck on-site to enter a heat. Each heat winner advances through a bracket system until the final championship races on Sunday afternoon. The event is strictly regulated to ensure the humane treatment of all animals involved, with volunteers assisting participants in the proper handling of the ducks.
WHERE CAN I BUY TICKETS OR REGISTER TO RACE?
Entry into McKinley Duck Park to watch the races is generally free for the public. However, if you wish to participate in the racing, you must pay a registration fee for each duck entry. Registration typically opens on the Thursday or Friday of the event weekend at the park headquarters. Carnival rides and specific tournament events, such as the golf or softball tournaments associated with the weekend, require separate fees. It is recommended to check the official event map for the specific location of the registration tents.
WHAT OTHER ACTIVITIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE WEEKEND SCHEDULE?
Beyond the races, the weekend includes the “Tournament of Ducks” parade through downtown Deming on Saturday morning. McKinley Duck Park hosts a large vendor market featuring local arts, crafts, and food throughout the weekend. A carnival with traditional rides and games runs for the duration of the event. Live music performances often take place in the evenings at the park’s main stage.
IS THE EVENT APPROPRIATE FOR OUT-OF-TOWN VISITORS?
Yes. The Great American Duck Race is a major tourism driver for Luna County and welcomes visitors from across the Southwest. Deming offers several lodging options, though hotels often fill up months in advance for that weekend. Many visitors choose to stay in nearby Las Cruces or bring RVs to designated park areas. The event is a high-energy celebration of community spirit, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a traditional New Mexico festival with deep historical roots.
ARE THERE CASH PRIZES FOR THE WINNERS?
Yes. The Great American Duck Race is known for its substantial cash purse. Winners of the professional and amateur categories on both wet and dry tracks receive monetary awards. In previous years, top winners have received checks for $1,500 or more, depending on the number of entries and sponsorship levels. These prizes are awarded during a ceremony on Sunday afternoon following the final championship heats. Both individual and business-sponsored ducks are eligible to compete for the top spots in their respective categories.
Posted by LasCruces.com
