Utica Fire Department Continues Long-Standing Duck Race Tradition at Burgoo Festival
The Utica Fire Department's Duck Race is continuing a long-standing tradition at the Burgoo Festival in Utica.
Utica, NY, October 11, 2026 — The Utica Fire Department is maintaining a cherished local event with its annual Duck Race, a tradition held as part of the Burgoo Festival in Utica. This activity has become a customary highlight for attendees of the popular festival.
The Duck Race, organized by the Utica Fire Department, is a well-established part of the community’s festivities. While specific details regarding the origin or exact duration of this tradition were not provided, it is described as long-standing, indicating its consistent presence over many years.
The event typically involves participants selecting numbered rubber ducks. These ducks are then released into a designated body of water, with the first ducks to cross a finish line determining the winners. Prizes are often associated with the race, although specific prize details for this year’s event were not available. The proceeds from duck sales frequently benefit the organizing fire department, supporting their equipment needs or community initiatives. However, the exact use of funds generated by this year’s race was not specified.
The Burgoo Festival itself is a significant community gathering in Utica, drawing crowds interested in local culture, food, and activities. The inclusion of the Fire Department’s Duck Race adds a unique, family-friendly element to the festival’s schedule. The specific date of the race within the Burgoo Festival, as well as the number of ducks participating or the estimated attendance, were not provided in the summary. Further details on how the public can participate or support the event were also not made available.
The continuation of such traditions underscores the community’s engagement with its local heritage and support for its public services, particularly the fire department. The event serves as both a fundraising opportunity and a source of entertainment for residents and visitors alike during the annual festival.
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