Rubber Ducky Race at Sperry Park in Cranford, NJ

Picture 1,500 yellow ducks bobbing toward the falls while hundreds of neighbors cheer from the riverbank. On Sunday, October 4, that scene returns to Sperry Park for the Hanson Park Conservancy's 15th Annual Rubber Ducky Race in Cranford.

The Conservancy, a nonprofit started by Cranford residents in 2004, has held the race since 2010. The event usually draws more than 400 people to watch the numbered ducks race over the waterfalls at Sperry Park. Union County Life readers looking for a fun Sunday afternoon in Cranford can catch the splash.

Prizes, donated by local merchants, go to the first 10 ducks across the finish line. After the race, all the ducks are collected and saved for next year. All proceeds support Hanson Park maintenance and educational programs.

The race starts at 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Sperry Park, Riverside Drive, Cranford. To enter, adopt a duck at the Cranford Canoe Club at Orange and Springfield avenues, or at Periwinkles Fine Gifts, 19 N. Union Ave. For questions, email info@hansonparkconservancy.com.

Whether your duck wins or finishes last, you are helping keep a favorite Cranford park green for years to come. Find more Cranford events, arts coverage, and community news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Patch

FAQ:

Q: How much does it cost to adopt a duck for the Cranford Rubber Ducky Race?
A: The Hanson Park Conservancy's website does not list the duck adoption price. Ask at the Cranford Canoe Club or Periwinkles Fine Gifts, or email info@hansonparkconservancy.com.

Q: Where is the Cranford Rubber Ducky Race, and where do I park?
A: The race is at Sperry Park on Riverside Drive in Cranford. Parking details were not listed, so plan to arrive early since the race usually draws more than 400 people.

Q: How do I enter a duck in the race?
A: Adopt a duck at the Cranford Canoe Club at Orange and Springfield avenues, or at Periwinkles Fine Gifts, 19 N. Union Ave. in Cranford.

Q: What do the winning ducks get?
A: The first 10 ducks to cross the finish line win prizes donated by local merchants. All proceeds from the Rubber Ducky Race support Hanson Park maintenance and educational programs.

Q: Where can I find more Cranford events?
A: Union County Life covers Cranford events and community news, including the Rubber Ducky Race and the Parade of Pumpkins. Visit unioncountylife.com for more local happenings.