Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge
20th anniversary milestone plunge raising funds for Special Olympics NJ at Wildwood Beach.
Wildwood Polar Plunge has already run this year — here's what's next
The Jersey Shore event calendar keeps going well past Labor Day. These are the next dated events on it.
- Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off (LBI Chowderfest)October 3–4 · Beach Haven
- Jersey Shore Half MarathonOctober 4 · Sandy Hook
- Victorian WeekendOctober 9–12 · Cape May
- LBI Surf Fishing ClassicRunning now · August 29 – November 29 · Long Beach Island
- The Race of GentlemenOctober 1–4 · Wildwood
- Highlands OktoberfestOctober 3 · Highlands
Event Details
Date
January 17, 2026
Time
Registration 10am-12:45pm, Plunge at 1pm
Location
Wildwood
Wildwoods Convention Center Beach
Admission
$110-$125 fundraising minimum
Expected Attendance: 3,000+ plungers
Stay for Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge
Small towns run out of rooms on event weekends first — book before you plan the rest.
Book Your Stay
Find hotels, vacation rentals, and B&Bs in Wildwood
Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge weekend rooms in Wildwood go first
Powered by Booking.com
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Same trip, same weekend
Other things happening nearby around the same dates.
Get a reminder five days before Wildwood Polar Plunge
One email the week of, with times and parking, then the rest of the season’s dates as they are confirmed — never guessed.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
About Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge
The 20th Anniversary Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge celebrates two decades of brave plungers supporting Special Olympics New Jersey athletes. Join thousands at Wildwood Beach for this iconic winter tradition with costume contests, team competitions, and post-plunge celebration.
This event has been running for 20 years.
Highlights
20th Anniversary celebration
3,000+ plungers expected
Special Olympics NJ fundraiser
Post-plunge lunch included
Costume contests
NEW: Wave Maker support option
Tips for Attending
Register early for lower fundraising minimum ($110 vs $125)
Form a team for more fun and easier fundraising
New Wave Maker option lets you support without plunging
Arrive by 10am for smooth check-in
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge?
Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge takes place January 17, 2026 in Wildwood, NJ. The event typically runs Registration 10am-12:45pm, Plunge at 1pm.
Is Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge free?
Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge requires $110-$125 fundraising minimum. Visit the official website for pricing and availability.
Where is Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge held?
Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge takes place at Wildwoods Convention Center Beach in Wildwood, Cape May County. Address: 4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260