2026 Bay Area 5K & Polar Plunge supporting Special Olympics Northern California
2026 Bay Area 5K & Polar Plunge
2026 Bay Area 5K & Polar Plunge supporting Special Olympics Northern California
About 2026 Bay Area 5K & Polar Plunge
Join Us for the 5K & Polar Plunge
Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach | March 21
Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach | March 21
THE POLAR PLUNGE
Ready to brave the waters for Special Olympics Northern California? Join the Bay Area 5K & Polar Plunge, a fun dip, skip or jump into the Bay for a great cause! Don’t want to get wet? Register as a chicken and you'll be excused from plunging but still qualify for the incentive rewards and other festivities.
THE 5K RUN
In conjunction with the Polar Plunge, running enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic 5K timed run before the Plunge. Awards presented to the top 3 runners in each age category. Learn more about the 5K RunHOW IT WORKS:
- Rally Your Crew (or Fly Solo!)
Grab your besties, coworkers, or family and jump in together!
- Pick a Fearless Leader & Name Your Squad!
Elect a team captain and brainstorm the most epic team name. (Extra points for puns and frosty humor!)
- Hit That Register Button
Sign up and officially join the coolest event of the season. Pro tip: Early birds get more time to plan their costumes!
- Fundraise Like a Pro
Spread the word and raise critical funds for Special Olympics NorCal. You’re not just plunging—you’re making a difference!
- Suit Up & Show Up!
Costumes are a strongly encouraged—go big or go home! Then, bring your energy, smiles, and maybe a towel. Time to take the plunge!
Grab your besties, coworkers, or family and jump in together!
Elect a team captain and brainstorm the most epic team name. (Extra points for puns and frosty humor!)
Sign up and officially join the coolest event of the season. Pro tip: Early birds get more time to plan their costumes!
Spread the word and raise critical funds for Special Olympics NorCal. You’re not just plunging—you’re making a difference!
Costumes are a strongly encouraged—go big or go home! Then, bring your energy, smiles, and maybe a towel. Time to take the plunge!
Ready to make waves? Let's do this.
All Plungers & Chickens must raise a minimum of $125 in order to participate. Cool School participants need to raise $50 but must raise $125 for t-shirt and lunch.
Date
Starts at: March 21, 2026 10:30 AM
Ends at: March 21, 2026 3:30 PM
Location
Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach
8th Street Otis Dr
Alameda,CA 94501 USA
Contact
Brrizzly the Polar Plunge Bear
Plunge@sonc.org
Why Participate?
Your participation will directly support our inclusive sports, health, schools and leadership programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Through Special Olympics, our athletes build friendships, overcome obstacles and are empowered to realize their full potential. Success on the field leads to more opportunities in daily life as the community learns about the unique abilities and contributions of our athletes. All Special Olympics programs are provided at no cost to the athletes and their families thanks to your support.
What can you Expect?
You can expect an amazing time with some great people! The Polar Plunge is an iconic tradition in Special Olympics in which brave supporters raise funds and take a quick dip in chilly waters to show their dedication for Special Olympics athletes. The Plunge is a family event and costumes are encouraged! You'll have a blast and feel good knowing that the funds you raise will help us change lives.
Before the Plunge be a part of the 5K Fun Run along the beach trails.