Polar Plunge

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Special Olympics Wisconsin

2018 Polar Plungers.

media release: Thousands of Special Olympics Wisconsin supporters across the state will be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the 2025 Polar Plunge® for Special Olympics Wisconsin. This year’s slate of eight statewide events—plus an alternative plunge option—encourages Special Olympics supporters to make ice-cold memories.

“Polar Plunge® for Special Olympics Wisconsin is a truly unique grassroots fundraising event supporting our incredible statewide athletes,” Special Olympics Wisconsin President & CEO Chad Hershner said. “Polar Plungers, Polar Pledgers, and community supporters show their commitment to inclusion by raising funds for the cause, then jumping into icy waters. We look forward to another memorable year of plunging across the Badger State!”

Several options for participation are available in 2025. First, and arguably most fun, Polar Plungers—comprising both individuals and teams—can jump in person at eight locations across seven Saturdays:

                Saturday, Feb. 1 – Wisconsin Rapids (Anchor Bay Bar & Grill)

                Saturday, Feb. 8 – Oshkosh (Menominee Park)

                Saturday, Feb. 15 – Madison (Lottes Park)

                Saturday, Feb. 22 – Green Bay (Perkofski Boat Launch)

                Saturday, Mar. 1 – La Crosse (Black River Beach)

                Saturday, Mar. 1 – Milwaukee (Bradford Beach)

                Saturday, Mar. 8 – Chippewa Falls (Loopy’s Grill & Saloon)

                Saturday, Mar. 15 – Whitewater (Whitewater Aquatic Center)

Polar Plungers unavailable for an in-person plunge event can try a “create your own adventure” option via the Alternative Plunge. Dump a bucket of ice water over your head in the driveway, or take a dive on your spring break trip to warmer waters—all for a great cause.

Those opting out of an icy dip altogether can become a Polar Pledger, still raising funds in support of Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes without getting wet.

For both Polar Plungers and Polar Pledgers, each individual reaching the minimum fundraising level of $100 is eligible for incentives. This year’s prizes include a collectible long sleeve t-shirt, hat, towel, backpack, and pullover jacket—all branded with Special Olympics Wisconsin or Polar Plunge logos.

All funds raised for this unique winter tradition help thousands of statewide athletes train and compete in sporting events, supports year-round health and wellness programming, promotes inclusion in schools, and equips individuals with intellectual disabilities leadership and empowerment tools to become important contributors within their own communities.

More information, including event registration for each location, can be found at PlungeWI.org.

About Special Olympics Wisconsin

Special Olympics Wisconsin has empowered people with intellectual disabilities for more than 50 years, providing year-round sports training and competition, health and wellness programs, school-based inclusion initiatives, and leadership development. Learn more about how together we can create a more inclusive Wisconsin at SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org.