2026 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge & Runs

2026 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge & Runs supporting Special Olympics Northern California
2026 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge & Runs

About 2026 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge, 5K Trail Run & 1 Mile Run/Walk

Join Us for the Polar Plunge & Run
 Granite Bay Beach | March 7

THE POLAR PLUNGE

Ready to brave the waters for Special Olympics Northern California? Join the Greater Sacramento 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 RUN/WALK

In conjunction with the Polar Plunge, running enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic 5K timed trail run before the Plunge. Awards presented to the top 3 runners in each age category.  Those not ready for a 5K can participate in the One Mile Fun Run/Walk Learn more about the 5K Run


HOW 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!  

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.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please email Plunge@sonc.org.


Date

Starts at:  March 7, 2026 10:00 AM
Ends at:  March 7, 2026 3:30 PM

Location

Granite Bay Main Beach
8099 Douglas Boulevard
Granite Bay,CA 95746 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?

The Polar Plunge is an iconic tradition in Special Olympics in which brave supporters take a chilly winter dip to show their dedication for our athletes. Our 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.  

Back for a second year, the 5K Trail Run takes participants through Browns Ravine and all finishers earn a cool custom medal!


Sponsorship Opportunities are Available.

​We there are a wide range of sponsorship opportunities providing a variety of benefits and ways you can show your support.  

LEARN MORE

For more information contact Katie at KatieO@sonc.org.