Bibury’s annual Duck Race is one of Gloucestershire’s more unusual traditions, drawing crowds from far and wide each year on Boxing day, and 2023 will be no exception.
Every year at around 11am on Boxing Day, the picturesque village of Bibury is transformed by hordes of spectators, who manage to peel themselves off the sofa and away from the tubs of Quality Street, to watch as thousands of plastic ducks float down the River Coln for two exciting races.
The event continues to attract a global audience, leading to organisers making it even easier for the race to be seen from anywhere — with the addition of a live stream available to catch on Instagram.
Now in its 35th year, 3,000 rubber ducks will released into the river, which as well as being a great bit of festive fun, can raise thousands of pounds for a selected local charity, as spectators can sponsor a duck — with the participants whose ducks cross the finish line first receiving a prize.
Past prizes have included a delicious dinner for four, bottles of Champagne and whiskey and even an oven-ready duck.
Part of the proceeds from the race will also go towards fundraising for the Bibury Cricket Club, which will also host the live stream on Instagram, alongside the ability to buy sponsorship tickets online — with current sponsors including families from as far as Australia!
Committee member for Bibury Cricket Club, Jack Merrylees, said: 'The race is not only a great way to bring people together but also an opportunity to support a worthy cause.
'We invite everyone to join us for a day of festivities, laughter, and of course, to witness the thrilling duck race. And we’re hoping to bring a little slice of the Cotswolds to a global audience this year.'
Check out SoGlos's list of the wackiest events in Gloucestershire for more unmissable happenings in the county.
