Polar Plunge & Run

WHAT

• Event: RUN - PLUNGE - OR BOTH
• Cause: Help support local Special Olympics athletes by participating in the Polar Plunge & Run.
• Options: Choose from the 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, or take a chilling plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.
• Encouragement: 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.

EVENT DETAILS

• Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
• Location: Race Start / Finish Line: 105 Atlantic Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449
• Polar Plunge: On the Beach at 105 Atlantic Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449
• Parking: Available at any legal street parking spot in surrounding blocks. Parking fees may apply.

EVENTS OFFERED

• 5K: This is a timed event
• 1 Mile: This event is not timed (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.
• Fundraisers: The amazing Polar Plunge Fundraisers are the backbone of this event.
• Prizes: Prizes are available for fundraisers!
• Get Involved: To fundraise, click on Become a Fundraiser in the menu above.

TEAMS

• Team Up: Get your team together for the 2026 Polar Plunge.
• Incentives: 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. Register at home or on your phone before visiting the registration tents.
• Digital Registration: Participants who register at the event will be asked to scan a QR Code with their phone to register digitally.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

• Visit the Schedule of Events by clicking HERE

HOW YOUR REGISTRATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE

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

For more information, visit the race page here.