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Wildwood's 20th Annual Polar Bear Plunge Set for January 1st

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 13:31 GMT by NJ.com

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Wildwood Braces for its 20th Annual Polar Bear Plunge: A Tradition of Freezing Fun & Fundraising

Wildwood, New Jersey is gearing up for its highly anticipated 20th annual Polar Bear Plunge, a beloved tradition that draws thousands to the frigid Atlantic Ocean each year. The event, scheduled for January 1st, 2025, promises another dose of exhilarating chills and significant fundraising for Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ). While the plunge itself is known for its bracing cold, the atmosphere surrounding it is warm with community spirit and a shared commitment to supporting a vital cause.

The Polar Bear Plunge has become a cornerstone event in Wildwood’s winter calendar, transforming the usually quiet beach into a vibrant hub of activity. What started as a small gathering two decades ago has blossomed into one of SONJ's largest fundraising events statewide. This year marks a significant milestone – the 20th anniversary – and organizers are pulling out all the stops to make it memorable.

A Tradition Born from Fun & Philanthropy:

The origins of the Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge, like many successful traditions, were relatively humble. According to SONJ's website, the first plunge was a spontaneous act by a group of friends looking for a unique way to ring in the New Year. Recognizing the potential for combining fun with fundraising, they quickly formalized the event and partnered with Special Olympics New Jersey. The partnership has proven incredibly fruitful, generating millions of dollars over the years to support SONJ’s programs benefiting individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout the state.

The Plunge & Beyond: A Day-Long Celebration:

The actual plunge is just one part of a larger day-long celebration. Activities begin early on January 1st, with registration and pre-plunge festivities kicking off at 9:00 AM. The atmosphere is electric, filled with music, food vendors, and the palpable excitement (and nervous anticipation) of those preparing to brave the icy waters. The official plunge itself typically takes place around noon, when hundreds of "Polar Bears" – participants ranging from seasoned veterans to first-time thrill-seekers – sprint into the ocean.

Beyond the main event, there's a vibrant post-plunge party with music and camaraderie. The entire day is designed to be a festive experience for all involved, not just those taking the plunge. The energy of the crowd, bundled in layers and cheering on their friends and family, creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

Registration Still Open – But Time is Running Out!:

As of December 2024, registration for the 20th annual Polar Bear Plunge is still open, but participants are urged to sign up quickly as spaces are filling fast. The cost to register varies depending on whether you're part of a team or an individual. Teams require a minimum fundraising commitment – currently set at $150 per person – while individuals need to raise at least $100. These funds directly support SONJ’s year-round sports training and competition programs, as well as vital health initiatives and community outreach efforts.

The registration process is managed online through the Special Olympics New Jersey website (linked in the original article). Participants are required to be 16 years or older to participate independently; those under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult. Detailed information about rules, safety guidelines, and fundraising requirements can also be found on the SONJ site.

Impact & Fundraising Goals:

The Polar Bear Plunge’s impact extends far beyond the momentary chill experienced by participants. Over the past nineteen years, the Wildwood event has raised an impressive sum for Special Olympics New Jersey. While specific figures for 2024 are still being tallied (as of the article's publication), previous plunges have consistently generated hundreds of thousands of dollars – and sometimes exceeding $1 million – annually. These funds are crucial to SONJ’s ability to provide free sports training, competition opportunities, and health services to over 11,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities across New Jersey.

This year's fundraising goal is ambitious but achievable, reflecting the continued growth and importance of the event. Organizers emphasize that every dollar raised makes a tangible difference in the lives of Special Olympics athletes. Even those who aren’t able to participate in the plunge can contribute by donating to registered teams or individuals through the SONJ website.

Looking Ahead:

The 20th annual Polar Bear Plunge promises to be another resounding success, solidifying its place as a cherished Wildwood tradition and a vital fundraising engine for Special Olympics New Jersey. As organizers look ahead, they express gratitude for the unwavering support of participants, volunteers, sponsors, and the entire community. The event’s longevity is a testament to the power of combining a unique experience with a worthy cause – proving that even a plunge into freezing water can generate warmth and hope for those who need it most.

To learn more or register, visit: [ https://www.specialolympicsnj.org/events/polar-bear-plunge/ ]