August is peak summer in Bellaire—and there’s no better time to visit than Rubber Ducky Festival Weekend. This playful, family-friendly celebration fills downtown with color, music, and community spirit, making it the centerpiece of our August Playcation.
From the excitement of the Big Duck Race and live music on Friday night, to a full day of festival fun on Saturday—complete with the parade, duck drop, and entertainment in the park—this weekend is all about celebrating summer in a town that knows how to host a good time.
FRIDAY ARRIVAL
Checkin - Relax - Explore Downtown
Sunset
Find a beach, dock, or scenic overlook and enjoy one of Northern Michigan's beautiful July sunsets.
[Tip: to find the best locations, ask a local resident or business owner] Things to do
Dinner
Choose from casual pubs, patios, upscale dining, or lakeside restaurants.
Nightlife
Wrap up the evening with live music, craft beer, cocktails, or simply relax back at your lodging under the stars.
Evening | Big Duck Race & Live Music
Watch the Big Duck Race—a signature, can’t-miss moment (this is called the "Big Duck Race" because the ducks are larger in size. There are only 50 ducks in this race. Each duck is purchased for $100 - usually by local businesses. They decorate the duck - this is one of the best parts! Then they are dumped off the bridge and they race to the finish line to see which business gets bragging rights!)
A pre-race party is at Fireside Lounge - here you can see all the decorated ducks and vote for your favorite duck! The winner will receive a prize from Fireside Lounge. Judging is from 4pm-5pm at Fireside Lounge.
The race is at 5:30pm prompt! So head down to the starting line on the bridge by Stonewaters Inn.
Enjoy live music, food, and drinks after the race on Broad Street downtown
Kids’ activities and family-friendly fun throughout the evening
Settle into the lively downtown atmosphere and ease into the weekend - check out the festival activities here
Friday night is high-energy and festive—the perfect welcome to Bellaire.
Build your day around the festival, then layer in shopping, dining, and relaxed exploring between events. With a full schedule of activities and a welcoming, walkable downtown, the Rubber Ducky Festival is the perfect reason to turn a summer weekend into a Bellaire Playcation.
Click here for the Rubber Ducky schedule of events
Breakfast or Brunch
Enjoy one last relaxed meal before heading home.
Last-Minute Shopping
Pick up a few favorites or Bellaire souvenirs before you leave.
Take One Last Walk
Enjoy the riverwalk, downtown parks, or a scenic overlook before heading home.
Church Service Options - local Churches welcome visitors for Sunday services.
Thanks for Playing Like a Local
We hope your Rubber Ducky Playcation leaves you with sun-soaked memories, new favorite shops, and plans to return again soon for another Playcation in Bellaire.
Because some places you visit...
...and some places feel like they've been waiting for you.
Bellaire, Michigan
