Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, 5K Run to the Plunge Canceled
SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. – The Special Olympics of Delaware (SODE) has announced the cancelation of the 2026 Lewes Polar Bear Plunge and 5K Run to the Plunge.
Officials say the decision to cancel was motivated by lingering conditions from the recent snow storm. Despite continuous efforts, many parts of Rehoboth Beach’s boardwalk and all beach crossings remain snow covered, in addition to many sidewalks throughout downtown area. The lack of parking and safe walkways has created “an infrastructure that cannot safely support the more than 20,000 polar bears and spectators expected on Sunday.”
“Unfortunately, we cannot justify putting people’s safety at risk, nor can we shift our resources to focus on the event,” says Rehoboth Beach Police Chief Keith Banks. “Public works and public safety crews in the city and the surrounding areas have been working around the clock this week, so preparing and staffing the event isn’t feasible this weekend. This timing is unfortunate for all of us, as the Polar Bear Plunge is a wonderful event that we enjoy participating in every year, but we need to put safety first and utilize our resources properly.”
The following events related to the Plunge and 5K will still take place:
- Friday, Feb. 27
4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Plunge and 5K Run to the Plunge packet pick up and Souvenir Sales at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center - Saturday, Feb. 28
12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Fire & Ice in the Atlantic Sands Ballroom
2:30 – 5:00 p.m. Restaurant Chili Contest
4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Plunge and 5K Run to the Plunge packet pick up and Souvenir Sales at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
Event officials still encourage those who were planning to attend to pick up their hoodies and incentives, and consider participating in a Virtual Plunge.
“Whether it’s water balloons, jumping in the snow, a bucket of icy water, or something uniquely creative, you can still be part of the celebration from anywhere,” SODE said. “Gather your team or go solo, just be sure to share your photos and videos so we can celebrate with you.”
The plunge will not be rescheduled this year.
