Event Details
One of Newtown’s most beloved traditions returns on Saturday, June 13: the Great Pootatuck Duck Race & Festival. The festivities kick off at 10 a.m. with exhibitors, great food, live music, games, and—of course—thousands of bright yellow ducks ready to take their place in river‑racing history.
Just before the main event, we'll commemorate America's 250th birthday with a special a patriotic reading of the Ducklaration of Independence by none other than John Hanquack. After all, ducks have inalienable rights too.
Then at 2 p.m., Newtown’s version of the Kentucky Derby begins. A $10 raffle ticket enters your duck in the race for 20 fantastic prizes, including:
- First Prize: A luxury weekend for two at the Hopkins Inn in the heart of the Litchfield Hills
- An overnight getaway in Mystic
- Gift certificates to many of Newtown’s favorite restaurants
- And more.
You don’t need to be present to win — but the party will be better with you.
Every duck makes a difference. Your raffle ticket helps train guide dogs for the blind, supports programs for the blind or vision‑impaired, and funds annual vision screenings for more than 1,500 kids in Newtown.