Ballater Duck Festival - Ballater Square Carpark

Ballater Duck Festival splashes back into action on Sunday 7th June 2026 from 11am on the Village Greens and by the River Dee. Expect a full family fun day with stalls, local food producers, music, and activities for children throughout the day. Then at 3pm sharp, our 12 8ft giant ducks will be launched upstream to race down the river towards the bridge — first duck under wins! Tote tickets are available for those who fancy a flutter (16+ only).

Duck racing has long been a light-hearted tradition, and Ballater’s inflatable duck spectacle — born after Storm Frank in 2016 — has grown into one of Deeside’s best-loved community events. With music, pipe bands, local groups, sponsors, and volunteers all playing their part, the festival is a celebration of resilience, community spirit, and good old-fashioned fun. Whether you come for the stalls, the entertainment, or to cheer on your chosen duck, it’s a date for the diary you won’t want to miss.