Organized by Try Events, the Rubber Ducky Race takes place in Burnaby in October. There are three different runs on the same day including a half-marathon.

In 2026 the Rubber Ducky Race takes place on Sunday, October 18th.

Other fall events in the same series include the Boundary Bay Marathon (in November) and the Vancouver Historic Half Marathon (on November 30th, 2025). Both of them are also great events and popular with runners.

Visit TryEvents.ca for full details and to register.

This article includes the following information about the Rubber Ducky Race:

When and Where? | Registration Prices | Other Details | Video | Other Information

Rubber Ducky Race at Burnaby Lake Park — Rubber Ducky Race in Burnaby

Rubber Ducky Race in Burnaby

The Rubber Ducky Race is an annual event held in the City of Burnaby. The event features three primary races catering to three different levels. There’s a 5 km race, a 7-mile (or 11 km) race, and a half-marathon (which is 21 kms long). All three races happen at the same location each year, but with slightly different start times.

The Rubber Ducky Race is a timed run, meaning all runners clock their time using a borrowed time tag. Participants attach the small square tag to their shoelaces before starting their run. The tag tracks how long each person takes to complete their run, and everyone returns their tag at the end of the race. There are awards for the top three fastest times in each race.

The Course at Burnaby Lake

The route takes runners along a public trail around Burnaby Lake Regional Park. Most of the ground is firm and tightly packed. That said, it’s not a completely flat trail. Various slight elevation changes test the strength and stamina of everyone. Several water stations are set up along the route to keep runners hydrated.

About Try Events and Other Races

The Rubber Ducky Race is one of several runs hosted by Try Events. The organisation works with Metro Vancouver communities and supports local charities. Try Events races are popular and fun for the whole family.

Other races in the series include the Chilly Chase in January, Fort Langley Historic Half in February, and both the Vancouver Chocolate Run and Shamrock ‘N Race in March. There are also the Boundary Bay Marathon and Vancouver Historic Half-Marathon events in November.

Visit TryEvents.ca to register and for the event’s official website.

When and Where?

In 2026 the Rubber Ducky Race takes place on Sunday, October 18th.

The warm-up typically begins at 8:45 am, so most runners arrive before this time. The races start one after the other beginning at around 9:00 am and the course remains open until noon.

All the runs at the Rubber Ducky Race happen around Burnaby Lake Park. The scenic trail offers calming views of the water and provides an opportunity to spot wildlife. The route also goes through both forest and open areas. Participants get to exercise outdoors and take in all the natural beauty the region has to offer.

The Rubber Ducky Race starts and finishes at the corner of Joe Sakic Way and Sperling Avenue. The nearest parking lot is located along Sperling Avenue between Joe Sakic Way and Sprott Street in Burnaby.

To get to the venue from the Trans-Canada Highway, turn north onto Kensington Avenue, then turn right on Sprott Street (just before the CG Brown Memorial Pool and Bill Copeland Sports Centre). If you miss the turnoff, you can also turn right on Joe Sakic Way at the end of the Sports Centre complex and then head down Sperling.

Registration Prices

The cost to participate in the Rubber Ducky Race varies depending on the distance you choose to run and how early you register. The earlier you book, the more you save. Price ranges for 2025 are below and will likely be comparable in 2026, though this is to be confirmed.

5 km – $53 to $65
7 mile – $58 to $70
Half marathon – $68 to $80

Registration includes some bonus swag items. Everyone who finishes their race gets a special medal with a duck design.

Visit TryEvents.ca to register and for the event’s official website.

Other Rubber Ducky Race Details

The event’s charitable partner last year was Charlford House which is a supportive treatment facility for women recovering from substance addiction. It’s to be confirmed whether this will be the charitable partner in 2026. If it is, donations to the organization are greatly appreciated.

At the event there is usually a bag drop off station where you can leave your bags and extra clothes. This is a great service because you’ll want to dress warm first thing in the morning but won’t want to run in all your clothes.

Rubber Ducky Race Video

Watch the following short video for an idea of what the Rubber Ducky Race looks like at the starting line on the day of the race. The video shows scenes of the start of the race from a past year. As you’ll see, there is a warm-up before the run begins. Shortly thereafter, the runners are off on their run around the lake.

Other Information

Visit the official Rubber Ducky Race page for more information about the race in Burnaby.

Another run in the Try Events series that also takes place at Burnaby Lake Regional Park is the Shamrock ‘n Race which happens around St. Patrick’s Day in March.

Check out our article about Try Events or visit the TryEvents.ca website to learn more about similar events hosted by the same organization.

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