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❤️ Charity Event ❄️ Outdoor All Ages

Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics

📅 Sunday, February 22, 2026 🕐 Registration 10 AM · Plunge 12 PM 📍 Long Beach, NY

About This Event

Are you brave enough to take the plunge? Join over 500 fearless Long Islanders as we charge into the frigid Atlantic Ocean to raise money for Special Olympics New York. It's cold, it's crazy, and it's for an incredible cause.

The Long Beach Polar Bear Plunge is one of Long Island's most beloved charity traditions, now in its 18th year. What started as a small group of dedicated supporters has grown into a massive community celebration that raises over $100,000 annually for Special Olympics athletes across New York State.

Don't want to get wet? You can still be a hero! Cheer on the plungers from the boardwalk, donate to a participant's fundraising page, or volunteer to help with event operations. Everyone plays a role in making this event a success.

🏆 2025 Plunge Impact

542 Plungers
$127K Raised
1,200+ Athletes Served

How to Participate

  • Register: Sign up online and commit to raising a minimum of $100 (or $50 for ages 8-17)
  • Fundraise: Create your personal page and share with friends and family
  • Plunge: Show up, gear up in your craziest costume, and run into the ocean!
  • Celebrate: Warm up with hot cocoa, enjoy the after-party, and feel amazing

📅 Day-of Schedule

10:00 AM Registration & check-in opens at Beach Pavilion
11:00 AM Costume contest judging begins
11:30 AM Group photo and warm-up with DJ
12:00 PM THE PLUNGE! 🌊❄️
12:30 PM After-party with food, drinks, awards

What to Bring

Wear: Swimsuit (costumes encouraged!), waterproof sandals or old sneakers you don't mind getting wet

Bring: Towels (multiple!), warm change of clothes, waterproof bag for belongings

Optional: Wetsuit (allowed but not required), crazy costume, team banner

Leave home: Valuables, expensive electronics, anything you can't get wet