Polar Plunge & Run

❄️ WHAT

• Event Type: RUN - PLUNGE - OR BOTH
• Tagline: Some People Are Just Worth Freezing For!
• Description: Help support local Special Olympics athletes by participating in the Polar Plunge & Run. Choose from the 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, or by taking a chilling plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. Run for a great cause on a great 5K course open to all ages and skill levels. Race participants will not be required to plunge, but are encouraged to heat up with the run/walk and cool down with the Polar Plunge – because some people are just worth freezing for!
• Extras: Live music, vendors, food trucks and games make this a one-of-a-kind special event not to be missed!

📅 DATE

• Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026

📍 LOCATION

• Race Start / Finish Line: 105 Atlantic Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449
• Polar Plunge: On the Beach, 105 Atlantic Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449

🚗 PARKING

• Availability: Parking is available at any legal street parking spot in surrounding blocks.
• Fees: Parking fees may apply.

🏃‍♂️ EVENTS OFFERED

• 5K: This is a timed event.
• 1 Mile: This event is not timed (PLEASE NOTE: The 1 Mile starts before the 5K at 1:00pm).
• Polar Plunge: Because some people are just worth freezing for!
• Participation: You can run or walk the 5K or 1 Mile.

💰 FUNDRAISING

• Importance: A big part of the Special Olympics Polar Plunge & Run is fundraising.
• Fundraiser Backbone: The amazing Polar Plunge Fundraisers are the backbone of this event.
• Prizes: Prizes are available for fundraisers!
• How to Fundraise: Click on Become a Fundraiser in the menu above.

👥 TEAMS

• Gathering: Get your team together for the 2026 Polar Plunge.
• Prizes: Prizes are available for biggest teams and top team fundraisers.

📝 TO REGISTER

• Before the Event: Click on the Sign Up button in the top right.
• At the Event: Online registration does not close until the race starts. We strongly encourage you to register at home or on your phone before visiting the registration tents.
• Registration Procedure: Participants who register at the event will be asked to scan a QR Code with their phone to register digitally.

🗓️ SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

• More Information: Visit the Schedule of Events by clicking HERE.

🤝 HOW YOUR REGISTRATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE

• Support for Athletes: Special Olympics New Hanover County provides year-round sports training, competition, social events, and Summer Camp for individuals eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities.
• Participation: In New Hanover County, more than 1000 athletes participate in Special Olympics.
• Funding: The program relies solely on private and corporate support as well as the efforts of over 500 volunteers to provide these services at no cost to the athletes or their families.

For more information on the race, visit the event page: Polar Plunge & Run Event.