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Downtown Development Board approves funding for giant rubber duck exhibit and multi‑day events in January
Summary
The Clearwater Downtown Development Board approved $21,500 in eligible DDB expenses to support the 'world's largest rubber duck' exhibit and a week of associated events in January 2026, including special photo sessions, a duck dash 5K, family programming and a Jeep‑themed culminating event.
The Downtown Development Board on Nov. 3 voted unanimously to provide $21,500 in eligible DDB funding for a planned series of events built around the world’s largest rubber duck, which officials say will arrive in January 2026. Amber Bryce, arts and cultural affairs manager, described the centerpiece duck as 61 feet tall (approximately six stories), 64 feet wide and 74 feet long, and outlined a multi‑day program of activities to maximize attendance and downtown economic activity.
Planned elements include timed photo opportunities, Market Mate integration, a themed 5K run, family performances by children’s entertainers and a Duck and Drive Jeep Invasion designed to draw Jeep clubs and extend activity into additional downtown blocks. The presentation noted sponsorship and merchant partnership opportunities and said a smaller “baby duck” (about 10 feet) would appear prior to the main exhibit to promote local business tie‑ins.
Board members praised the event’s planning and promotional strategy, discussed marketing costs and potential sponsor returns, and encouraged staff to track sponsor revenue so the DDB can assess its contribution. The board approved the funding by unanimous vote.
