Ballater Duck Festival 2026 – Visit Ballater's Favourite Family Day Out

The Ballater Duck Festival returns on Sunday 7th June 2026, bringing one of Royal Deeside's most popular family events back to the heart of the village.

From live entertainment and local food producers to children's activities and the famous giant duck race on the River Dee, the festival is a fantastic day out for visitors and locals alike and we are looking forward to being in the village for the first year.

Whether you're visiting Ballater for the day or enjoying a weekend in Royal Deeside, the Duck Festival is the perfect opportunity to experience everything this beautiful village has to offer.

What to Expect at Ballater Duck Festival

• Local food and drink stalls
• Artisan makers and craft traders
• Children's entertainment
• Live music
• Community activities
• The famous giant duck race on the River Dee

Visit The Strong Water Co. During the Festival

If you're spending the day in Ballater, we'd love to welcome you to The Strong Water Co. on Bridge Street.

Our Ballater whisky shop is home to hundreds of carefully selected whiskies, including rare releases, independent bottlings and collectible drams from some of Scotland's finest distilleries. We also stock an extensive range of wines, Scottish gin, craft beer and gifts.

Whether you're searching for a special bottle to enjoy at home or a unique gift from your visit to Royal Deeside, our team is always happy to help.

Special Ballater Duck Festival Opening Hours

Sunday 7th June 2026
11:30 am – 4:30 pm

Pop in before, during or after the festival and discover why visitors regularly describe us as one of the best whisky and wine shops in Ballater.

Things to Do in Ballater

The Ballater Duck Festival is just one reason to visit this beautiful Royal Deeside village. While you're here, why not explore:

• Balmoral Castle
• Loch Muick
• Glen Muick Nature Reserve
• Craigendarroch Hill
• Independent shops and cafés
• The Strong Water Co. Ballater Whisky Shop

Planning Your Visit

The Ballater Duck Festival takes place on Sunday 7th June 2026, with activities running throughout the day and the famous duck race drawing crowds to the River Dee.

If you're attending the festival, make sure to visit The Strong Water Co. for an outstanding selection of whisky, wine, gin and craft beer.

We look forward to welcoming you to Ballater during Duck Festival weekend.

The Strong Water Co.
2 Bridge Street, Ballater, Aberdeenshire

Open for Ballater Duck Festival
Sunday 7th June 2026 | 11:30 am – 4:00 pm