The ducks are ready!

The 19th Annual Newtown Lions Club Great Pootatuck Duck Race will take place on Saturday, May 25, in Sandy Hook Center.

The event runs from 10 am until 2:30 pm, when thousands of rubber ducks, each numbered to match a raffle ticket, will be launched from the Church Hill Road bridge into the Pootatuck River. The first 20 ducks to cross the finish line will win prizes worth nearly $4,700.

The top prize this year is $2,000, and second prize will receive $500.

The always-popular event promises to be better than ever this year, with plenty of fun for all ages. Kids can enjoy free bounce houses and a slide and more games and activities; there will also be a tag sale at Newtown United Methodist Church and entertainment, exhibitors, and food.

Duck Race raffle tickets are available for $5 each at numerous businesses in Newtown and Sandy Hook and from Lions Club members. Final tickets will also be on sale at the event.

This year’s event is proudly supported by Norcom’s Mortgage Force and Newtown United Methodist Church. Proceeds will help support numerous local charities through Newtown Lions Club contributions.

For additional information, including the full list of this year’s prizes, visit newtownlions.com.