Polar Bear Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Delaware Feb. 1

One of the First State’s largest fundraising events, the Special Olympics Delaware Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, will kick off at 1 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 1, in Rehoboth Beach.

Celebrating its 35th year, the plunge began humbly in 1992 with 78 participants raising $7,000. Fast forward to last year, when 4,416 Bears raised more than $1.2 million through in-person and virtual plunges.

To date, the event has generated more than $18.4 million to support Special Olympics Delaware's mission, which includes sports training, competition, health initiatives, education and leadership programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

”For 35 years, the Lewes Polar Bear Plunge has united thousands in a shared mission of inclusion,” said David Halley, Special Olympics Delaware president and CEO. “Every person who plunges, donates or cheers is part of a legacy that empowers thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities in Delaware to achieve their dreams.” 

Activities scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 31, include a 5K Run to the Plunge, sand sculpting demonstration, Fire & Ice Festivities and a Restaurant Chili Tasting contest.

Following the main event Sunday, an après-plunge party will be held held at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center.

For more information, go to plungede.org.