Polar Plunge

Special Olympics Wisconsin
2018 Polar Plungers.
press release: Special Olympics Wisconsin supporters from across south central Wisconsin will “Go Polar” in Madison Saturday, February 18, for the 2023 Polar Plunge® for Special Olympics Wisconsin, presented by Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and JP Cullen.
The Madison Polar Plunge® kicks off at Olin Park (1156 Olin-Turville Ct.) with an Opening Ceremony at 11 a.m. followed by nonstop plunging. The day will include live music, photo moments with Chilly Bear, food and beverage options, souvenirs, and plenty of fun memories while celebrating our Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes. Early registration is also available at Liberty Station (2161 Rimrock Rd.) Friday, from 10 am-6 pm.
Volunteers are still needed, and all members of the community are welcome to attend this truly unique event that brings people together for a worthy cause.
More information, including registration and an updated schedule of events, can be found at PlungeWI.org. Pre-registrations are highly encouraged, but on-site day-of registration will also be available beginning at 8 am. A pledge minimum of $100 is required.
Madison is one of eight Polar Plunge® locations spanning five Saturdays across the state. Other events this winter include Wisconsin Rapids, Oshkosh, Green Bay, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Whitewater, and Milwaukee.
This year’s Polar Plunge® features numerous ways to get involved. Individuals and their teams can take a traditional dip in-person at eight statewide locations. Those opting out of an in-person event can create their own adventure via Virtual Plunge. Students can form teams via the “Cool Schools” option, taking the plunge in-person or hanging out virtually. Less daring individuals can still fundraise by registering as a “Polar Pledger.” Finally, the “Support a Plunger” campaign allows fans to support other Polar Plunge® participants—all in the spirit of inclusion.
Plungers who raise the minimum $100 will receive the official Polar Plunge® long-sleeve shirt. Those raising more can earn additional prizes including a stocking cap, towel, and sweatshirt, with $2,000 fundraisers earning an entry for two tickets to P!NK’s Summer Carnival performance at American Family Field in Milwaukee.
Also returning in 2023 is the Polar Plunge® referral program. Registered plungers who raise $100 and refer new participants are eligible for a $25 VISA gift card.
All funds raised for this unique winter tradition go directly to Special Olympics Wisconsin, including helping thousands of statewide SOWI athletes train and compete at the state, national, and international level. The event also supports year-round health and wellness programs, leadership development, and Unified initiatives that enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID).
For more information about the Special Olympics Wisconsin movement, visit SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org.
About Special Olympics Wisconsin
Special Olympics Wisconsin is a statewide organization of the Special Olympics movement that unleashes the transformative power and joy of sports everyday around the world. Through work in sports, health, education and community building, Special Olympics has been empowering people with intellectual disabilities for more than 50 years, leading to a more welcoming and inclusive society. With the support of donors, coaches and volunteers, Special Olympics Wisconsin provides year-round sports training and nearly 150 yearly athletic events featuring 19 Olympic-type sports to nearly 9,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities. Join our online community by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! For more information, visit SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org or call (608) 222-1324.