Ready to dive into a day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy? The Greater Sacramento Special Olympics Polar Plunge and 5K Trail Run returns to Granite Bay Main Beach on Folsom Lake on Saturday, March 1. With a Wild West theme, this year’s event promises thrills, chills, and community spirit, all in support of Special Olympics Northern California (SONC).
The Polar Plunge is more than a swim—it’s a celebration of inclusion and camaraderie. Participants can dip a toe or take a full, frigid plunge, all while enjoying a costume party atmosphere. Not ready to brave the cold? Register as a ‘chicken,’ stay dry, and still raise funds to support Special Olympics athletes.
Plungers can join solo or as part of a team, with a $125 fundraising minimum that includes a commemorative T-shirt and lunch. Cool School participants, including students and school groups, can join for $50 but need to raise $125 for their shirt and brunch. The more you raise, the more incentive rewards you can earn—every dollar directly benefits Special Olympics athletes and their families.
Warm up with the 5K Trail Run or the one-mile fun run/walk before cooling off in the lake. The rugged 5K features hills, rocks, and water crossings for a true test of endurance, with the first 200 finishers earning a commemorative medal. For a more casual experience, the one-mile fun run/walk awards a finisher’s pin to the first 50 participants.
Awards will be presented to the top individual and team fundraisers, and the event’s costume contest encourages creativity—so break out your best Wild West attire. Costumes aren’t required but add to the fun and tradition of the global Polar Plunge.
All proceeds support Special Olympics Northern California, which offers free, year-round programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. SONC provides training and competitions in 11 sports, inclusive school programs, health and wellness activities, and leadership development opportunities.
Last year’s event saw nearly 300 participants raise close to $100,000. This year, the goal is set at $101,000, with 212 participants and 29 teams already contributing nearly $46,000 toward that target.
The Polar Plunge is more than a fundraiser—it’s a chance to connect with friends, meet new faces, and enjoy a beautiful day by Folsom Lake. Run, walk, or splash your way to supporting a cause that changes lives.
To register or donate, visit Greater Sacramento Special Olympics Polar Plunge or scan the QR code from event materials.
Folsom Times file photos by Bill Sullivan
