Join the 130 participants signed up so far as March 7 Polar Plunge pushes toward $100,000 goal
With just weeks remaining before brave participants rush into the chilly waters of Folsom Lake, momentum is building for the 2026 Greater Sacramento Area Polar Plunge and Run benefiting Special Olympics Northern California — and organizers are looking for more community members to sign up to help the cause.
As of this week, 130 participants and 23 teams have registered to take part in the annual fundraising event at Granite Bay Main Beach. Together, they have raised $26,781 toward the $100,000 goal set for this year’s event, making a meaningful early impact but leaving significant room for the region to rally in the final stretch.
The Polar Plunge, scheduled for Saturday, March 7 from 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., has become one of the Greater Sacramento region’s most anticipated winter fundraisers. Participants gather along the lakeshore in creative costumes before taking a symbolic and often icy dip into Folsom Lake to support Special Olympics athletes across Northern California.
This year’s theme, “Under the Sea,” promises a shoreline filled with colorful sea creatures, nautical nods and ocean-inspired team outfits as plungers count down together before entering the water. While the plunge itself lasts only moments, its impact stretches across an entire year of programming for athletes served by Special Olympics Northern California.
Organizers note that for every $500 donated, the life of a Special Olympics athlete is enriched through access to sports training, competitions, health screenings, educational programs and leadership development opportunities. Based on the current fundraising total, 53 athletes have already been positively impacted — a figure expected to grow substantially in the coming weeks.
Participation in the Polar Plunge and Runs requires fundraising to support Special Olympics Northern California, with registration options available for individuals, teams, schools and community groups. Full details on participation and how to sign up can be found athttps://p2p.onecause.com/sacramento-polar-plunge/challenge. Organizers encourage early registration to allow time to build fundraising momentum and rally supporters before March 7.
Those not eager to enter the cold water can still make a splash by registering as a “chicken,” remaining dry while participating in fundraising efforts and event festivities. Schools, businesses and civic groups are also encouraged to form teams and create themed costumes that add to the celebratory atmosphere on the beach.
Before the plunge begins, participants can also choose to take part in a scenic 5K timed trail run through the Granite Bay trails, featuring rolling hills and lakeside views. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each age category. A one-mile fun run and walk offers a more relaxed option for families and supporters who want to participate without tackling the full 5K.
While $26,781 represents a strong start, organizers emphasize that reaching the $100,000 goal will require a surge of new participants and donors in the final weeks. With 130 already committed, they hope the community will respond to the call and help expand the impact even further.
Special Olympics Northern California provides free, year-round sports, health and leadership programs to thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities across the region. Fundraisers like the Polar Plunge ensure those life-changing opportunities remain accessible and continue to grow.
Those ready to take the plunge, form a team, participate in the run or support the cause can register or donate athttps://p2p.onecause.com/sacramento-polar-plunge/challenge. With March 7 fast approaching, organizers say the lake is waiting — and so are the athletes who benefit from every splash.
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Folsom Times is proud to serve as a media partner with Special Olympics Northern California and will join organizers in emceeing this year’s Polar Plunge event, helping spotlight the athletes, teams and community members who make the day so meaningful.
