Thousands Expected to “Get Cold” for a Cause: 2026 Polar Bear Plunge Returns to Seaside Heights

The annual Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside Heights, is one of the largest and most exciting fundraisers for Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) and is returning to the Jersey Shore on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Thousands of individuals, teams, and law enforcement personnel are expected to brave the frigid Atlantic Ocean to raise funds for thousands of athletes across the state.

Presented by New Jersey Law Enforcement as part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) events, this year’s goal is to raise significant funds for the 25,000+ Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.

The 2026 plunge will take place on the beach in front of Spicy Cantina (315 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights, NJ). Participants, known as “plungers,” will jump into the ocean to support the year-round sports training, health education, and competition programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

In 2025, over 7,500 brave individuals took the plunge, united by their dedication to the athletes of SONJ, and their amazing efforts raised a combined amount of over $2.5 million.

Special Olympics New Jersey provides year-round sports training, competition, leadership opportunities, and health screenings to thousands of athletes. All of these programs and services are always completely FREE thanks to fundraising events like the Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside Heights.

Participants must register, pay a $25 fee, and meet minimum fundraising amounts ($125 for late/day-of registration).

For those not participating, spectators can cheer from the boardwalk. There will also be a live stream of the event will be available for those watching from home or the boardwalk.

For more New Jersey events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide.

For more New Jersey adventures and New Jersey Events, be sure to follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.

About Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ):
For over 50 years, Special Olympics New Jersey has provided year-round sports training, competition, leadership opportunities, and health screenings to more thousands of athletes. All of these programs and services are completely FREE of charge, thanks to fundraising events like the Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside.