HELEN, Ga. — Picture it: 3,000 bright yellow rubber ducks bobbing and racing down the Chattahoochee River as a cheering crowd lines the banks, beer steins in hand and accordion music drifting from Oktoberfest tents nearby. It’s a sight that’s become a hallmark of autumn in Helen, and it’s all for a good cause.
On Saturday, October 25, at 4 p.m., Family Promise of White & Habersham will host the 10th Annual Great Helen Duck Race, a lighthearted fundraiser that helps local families facing homelessness find stability and support.
The race launches across from Paul’s Margarita Deck, where the “unsinkable” ducks will begin their float toward the finish line near the Helen Festhalle. The first duck to cross wins a $5,000 cash prize for its sponsor, with second and third place prizes valued at more than $1,000 and $500, respectively. Even the slowest duck doesn’t waddle away empty-handed — there’s a prize for last place, too.
FUNdraiser
“The Great Helen Duck Race isn’t just a fun community tradition — it’s an opportunity to make a real difference. Every duck adopted helps us continue our mission to fight homelessness and support families and individuals in need,” said Family Promise of White & Habersham’s Executive Director, Martie Brooks.
This fun event raises money to fuel the serious work Family Promise does year-round. The nonprofit serves White and Habersham counties, providing shelter, job training, and transitional housing for families experiencing homelessness. The duck race, now in its 10th year, has become its biggest annual fundraiser — and one of Helen’s quirkiest traditions.
Tickets are $10 per duck or $40 for a “raft” of five, with only 3,000 ducks entered into the race. They can be purchased online at www.fpwh.org/events or by calling (706) 865-7725. Tickets will also be sold in Helen on race day while supplies last.
“Every penny truly counts,” said Brooks. “We invite everyone to come out this Saturday in Helen to cheer on their duck and enjoy a day full of laughter, community spirit, and friendly competition. It’s a wonderful reminder of what we can achieve when our community comes together for a great cause.”
