20th Annual Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge Returns to Wildwood January 17
One of Wildwood’s coldest yet most meaningful traditions is returning to the island this winter. The 20th Annual Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge will take place on January 17, 2025, bringing thousands of participants and spectators to the beach outside the Wildwoods Convention Center for a day that blends winter fun with a powerful cause.
The Polar Bear Plunge challenges individuals, organizations, first responders, families, and local businesses to take a brief but memorable dip into the frigid Atlantic Ocean. While the water may be icy, the motivation behind the plunge is anything but. Every jump into the ocean directly supports Special Olympics New Jersey, helping provide year round programming for athletes across the state.
Polar Bear Plunge Returns to Wildwood January 17
Event Details and Schedule
The event will take place on the beach directly behind the Wildwoods Convention Center. Registration opens at 10:00 a.m., giving plungers plenty of time to check in, meet up with teammates, and take in the lively atmosphere. The official plunge is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., when waves of costumed participants rush into the Atlantic together, cheered on by a packed shoreline of supporters.
Spectators are encouraged to attend and watch, even if they do not plan to plunge. The event has become one of Wildwood’s most anticipated winter gatherings, filling the boardwalk area with energy during the quieter offseason months.
More Than Just an Icy Dip
The Polar Bear Plunge is far more than a quick run into cold water. Funds raised through this event directly support Special Olympics New Jersey’s mission to provide sports training, athletic competition, leadership development, and health screenings to thousands of athletes statewide. These programs are offered completely free to athletes and their families, made possible by fundraising efforts like the Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge.
By plunging or donating, participants help ensure that athletes with intellectual disabilities have access to opportunities that promote confidence, physical fitness, and inclusion.
Registration Tiers and Fundraising Information
Participants can register under several fundraising tiers depending on when they sign up:
Early Bear with a 100 dollar minimum from September through November 30
Now I’m Ready Bear with a 110 dollar minimum from December 1 through December 31
Better Late Than Never Bear with a 120 dollar minimum from January 1 through January 16
Almost Missed It Bear with a 125 dollar minimum on January 17
There is a 25 dollar registration fee, which counts toward the total fundraising minimum. Any additional funds raised go directly toward meeting the required minimum for your chosen tier.
How to Get Started
Getting involved is straightforward. Participants begin by registering online for 25 dollars, which creates a customizable fundraising page. From there, plungers can share their page with family, friends, and coworkers through email and social media. Donations are tracked automatically, making it easy to monitor progress and thank supporters.
Those who exceed fundraising minimums can also earn exclusive Polar Bear Plunge incentives as a thank you for their efforts.
Learn More and Register
Whether you plan to plunge, donate, or simply watch from the beach, the 20th Annual Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge is a winter event that showcases Wildwood’s community spirit at its best. For full details or to register, visit www.plungewildwood.org.