Thousands Set to Take the Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights for Special Olympics of New Jersey

If you’re heading to the Jersey Shore this weekend and see crowds bundled up along the boardwalk, there’s a good reason for it.

The annual Polar Bear Plunge is returning to Seaside Heights this Saturday (March 14th, 2026), bringing thousands of brave participants together for one unforgettable splash, all for an incredible cause.

Polar Bear Plunge Returns to Seaside Heights This Weekend

Every year, plungers from across New Jersey take a chilly run into the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for the Special Olympics of New Jersey.

What started as a fun but daring fundraiser has grown into one of the state’s most recognizable charitable events, drawing thousands and thousands of participants and thousands more spectators cheering them on from the boardwalk.

Event Schedule for the 2026 Polar Bear Plunge

The action kicks off early on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with registration opening at 9:00 a.m. at Blaine Avenue in Seaside Heights.

From there, the excitement builds as plungers gather, many in costumes, team outfits, or matching sweatshirts representing businesses, families, and community groups.

At 11:30 a.m., participants will begin heading down to the beach in preparation for the main event. And then comes the moment everyone waits for, the official plunge at 1:00 p.m., when thousands dash into the icy Atlantic together.

The plunge itself takes place on the beach in front of the popular boardwalk restaurant Spicy Cantina, with plungers entering from the boardwalk near Lucky Leo’s Arcade.

Important Info for Participants and Spectators

Because the Polar Bear Plunge has grown so much over the years, organizers have made a few important changes for safety and crowd control.

Important Access Points for Plungers

Participants must present their wristbands at boardwalk entrance ramps before heading onto the beach. Plungers will be able to access the beach using three ramps along Ocean Terrace:

• The ramp in front of Lucky Leo’s Arcade

• The ramp at Franklin Avenue

• The ramp between Lincoln and Dupont Avenue

After taking the icy dip, participants will exit the beach at one of three locations:

• The ramp at Sumner Avenue in front of Spicy Cantina

• The ramp at Blaine Avenue

• The vehicle beach exit ramp at Grant Avenue next to Casino Pier

For more information on the Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights CLICK HERE.

Spectator Information for the Big Event

Due to the size of the event and the number of participants, spectators will not be permitted on the beach this year. However, the boardwalk provides plenty of space to watch and cheer on the brave souls running into the ocean.

A Cold Splash for a Warm Cause

While the water may be freezing, the spirit behind the event couldn’t be warmer. The Polar Bear Plunge raises critical funds for year-round sports training, health programs, and life-changing opportunities for athletes through the Special Olympics of New Jersey.

For many plungers, it’s about more than just the thrill of the cold, it’s about supporting athletes, building community, and being part of something bigger.

A Jersey Shore Tradition for a Great Cause

And if you’ve never seen thousands of people voluntarily run into the Atlantic in March, it’s definitely something worth experiencing.

So whether you’re taking the plunge or simply cheering from the boardwalk, it’s shaping up to be a lively and meaningful day in Seaside Heights, all for a truly great cause.