Polar Plunge & Run

WHAT

• Event: RUN - PLUNGE - OR BOTH
• Tagline: Some People Are Just Worth Freezing For!
• Support: Help support local Special Olympics athletes by participating in the Polar Plunge & Run.
• Participation: Choose from the 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, or by taking a chilling plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.

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.
• Fundraisers: 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

• Gather: 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.
• Encouragement: 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

• Access: 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 aged eight years and older with intellectual disabilities.
• Participants: 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.
• Access: These services are provided at no cost to the athletes or their families.

For additional information, visit the race website at Polar Plunge & Run.