Polar Plunge & Run

WHAT

• Event Type: 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 by taking 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 20, 2027
• Location: Race Start / Finish Line at 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. (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.
• Support: The amazing Polar Plunge Fundraisers are the backbone of this event.
• Prizes: Available for fundraisers!
• How to Fundraise: Click on Become a Fundraiser in the menu above.

TEAMS

• Gather a Team: Get your team together for the 2026 Polar Plunge.
• Rewards: Prizes are available for biggest teams and top team fundraisers.
• Participation: Teams help increase community engagement and fundraising potential.
• Fun: Compete in a friendly atmosphere for a worthy cause!

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.
• Recommendation: We strongly encourage you to register at home or on your phone before visiting the registration tents.
• Process: Participants who register at the event will be asked to scan a QR Code with their phone to register digitally.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

• Details: 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 eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities.
• Impact: In New Hanover County, more than 1000 athletes participate in Special Olympics.
• Funding: The program relies solely on private and corporate support.
• Community Effort: Over 500 volunteers help provide these services at no cost to the athletes or their families.

MORE INFORMATION

• Website: For more details, visit the official race page at Polar Plunge & Run.