Entries are already being accepted for the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Foundation’s annual Duck Race fundraiser that sends thousands of rubber ducks bobbing along Salt Creek to help local families access rec programs.
The event, scheduled for noon Saturday, Sept. 26, at Kiwanis Park, 8820 Brookfield Ave., invites residents to purchase ducks for $5 each and cheer as their entries compete for cash prizes.
First place wins $1,000, second place $750 and third place $500. Participants who buy 10 ducks for $50 receive a special Golden Duck entry at no extra cost; a winning Golden Duck brings a $100 bonus on top of their prize.
All proceeds from the Duck Race benefit the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Foundation’s scholarship program, which helps local families access affordable parks and recreation programs including summer camps, sports, arts, cooking classes, and before- and after-school care.
Trustee Kyle Whitehead, the village board’s liaison to the Parks and Recreation Commission, highlighted the foundation’s work during Monday’s village board meeting, noting that duck sales continue at the farmers market and other community events.
“All proceeds from the duck race and all the foundation’s activities benefit local families in need who are looking to enroll in parks programming,” Whitehead said. “Depending on their income level, families are eligible for discounts of up to 50% on program registration fees.”
The foundation was established in 2022 to support the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Department by raising funds to reduce and eliminate fees for programs and services for local families. Since its creation, the foundation has built a substantial budget and is working to reach more families who could benefit from scholarships.
“If you or someone you know may be able to benefit from a parks and rec scholarship or a discounted program fee, please reach out to the parks and recreation department and they will help work you through the application process,” Whitehead said.
Ducks can be purchased at the Brookfield Farmers Market, at select community events and online at https://www.zeffy.com/…/ticke…/2026-brookfield-duck-race.
More information about the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Foundation is available at https://brookfieldparksfdn.org/.
The Duck Race is one of several fundraising events hosted by the Parks and Recreation Foundation throughout the year. The Parks and Recreation Commission next meets on Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hall.
With the Parks and Recreation Department preparing for fall programming, Whitehead on Monday night offered a roundup of summer programs.
Summer camp concludes Friday, Aug. 7, marking the end of what Whitehead called “a fantastic summer.” The final day wraps up eight weeks of programming across the village’s parks and facilities.
“Thanks to all the full-time staff and the counselors who’ve made it possible for my kids and so many kids across the community to enjoy a great summer with their friends at all of our parks and facilities throughout the village,” Whitehead said.