CASSADAGA – The Cassadaga Lakes Association is conducting the 18th annual Ducky Derby, which will be held Saturday, Sept. 3 after the village of Cassadaga’s Labor Day parade at approximately 5 p.m.

The Derby will commence at the outlet located on Mill Street and Maple Avenue in the heart of the village. Those wishing to partake in the Ducky Derby may purchase a ducky ticket from any CLA member or before the Derby until sold out. Prizes include a first prize of $200, along with other donated gifts and certificates from local businesses. This is the CLA’s largest fundraiser of the year.

This year before the Derby, there will be games for young children along with prizes. In addition, Waddles the Ducky Derby mascot will make his debut. He will be available for pictures and to greet those attending the event.

In addition to the Ducky Derby, on Sunday, Sept. 4 there will be the annual boat parade with patriotic being this year’s theme. Boaters will assemble at the DEC boat launch on Dale Drive at 3:30 p.m. Following the boat parade, the Dunkirk Middle School “Marauder Steel” will perform at 4 p.m. at the Cassadaga Beach. This is a free event for all to enjoy.

The CLA is a non-profit organization that works to protect and enhance the three connected Cassadaga Lakes. Yearly projects include weed harvesting, funding for sheriff presence, water quality testing and education programs to help keep the waters safe and clean.

Those wishing for more information on the CLA can visit their website at: www.cassadagalakesassociation.com or on facebook.

For more information on the Ducky Derby, contact Julie VanValkenburg, chairperson, at 410-0673 or email her at juliemarievanvalkenburg@gmail.com.