2026 Polar Bear Plunge Weekend Sea Isle City

2nd Chance Sunrise
6 days ago
3 min read

Illustration of a cartoon polar bear wearing red sunglasses with the words “Polar Bear Plunge” and “Sea Isle City, New Jersey,” styled with icy lettering and Shore-themed graphics. — Cold water, big crowds for a great cause, and a polar bear with serious Shore style — Polar Bear Plunge, Sea Isle City edition.

Everything You Need to Know for Presidents Day Weekend!!

Winter may be cold, but Sea Isle City knows how to turn up the energy. Polar Bear Plunge Weekend 2026 returns Presidents Day Weekend and once again promises to be one of the biggest and most talked-about weekends of the year at the Jersey Shore.

Whether you’re a longtime Polar Bear regular, a charity run supporter, or someone who simply comes for the atmosphere, this winter weekend delivers packed crowds, creative costumes, and nonstop fun.

2026 Polar Bear Plunge Weekend Dates

Plan ahead for Presidents Day Weekend, February 13–15, 2026.

Sea Isle City is expected to welcome approximately 20,000 to 25,000 visitors over the course of the weekend. Rentals and hotels book early, restaurants stay busy from morning through late night, and the Promenade energy feels more like peak summer than mid-February.

A Weekend with a Purpose

While the Polar Bear Plunge was known for icy Atlantic Ocean runs and over-the-top costumes and has mostly been phased out by the town, the heart of the weekend is its charitable focus.

Aerial view of a large crowd participating in the Polar Bear Run–Walk for Autism in Sea Isle City, with runners gathered at the start line near the promenade and Excursion Park during Presidents Day weekend. — Proof that Sea Isle City can draw a crowd even in February — Polar Bear Weekend energy in full swing.

Mike’s Seafood Run–Walk for Autism

A cornerstone of the weekend, the Mike’s Seafood Run–Walk for Autism continues its meaningful impact in 2026. Founded by the Monichetti family, the event has raised more than one million dollars for autism-related causes, including special services schools, community programs, and direct family support.

It’s also not uncommon to spot familiar faces, including Jason Kelce, joining in or cheering from the sidelines.

Event details for 2026 include:

Saturday, February 14, 2026
12:00 PM start
JFK Boulevard and the Promenade
Registration at PolarBearRunWalkForAutism.com

his family-friendly 5K run/walk welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. After finishing, runners and walkers head to Excursion Park, where heated tents feature live music, door prizes, face painting, and a post-race buffet with bagels, donuts, soft pretzels, and other favorites.

The first 2,000 participants who pre-register receive a free event T-shirt and are entered into the door prize drawings. Team discounts are typically available for groups of ten or more who register in advance.

The Plunge Tradition Lives On

Although the Polar Bear Plunge is no longer an officially city-sponsored swim, the unofficial plunge tradition remains a major draw.

Each year, crowds gather along the beach as brave participants race into the frigid Atlantic. Costumes are strongly encouraged and range from animal onesies and tutus to full group themes. Even if you never plan to touch the water, watching the plunge is one of the most entertaining parts of the weekend.

Entertainment, Food, and Nightlife

Presidents Day Weekend in Sea Isle City goes far beyond the beach.

Local bars and restaurants host live music, DJs, themed Polar Bear events, and special food and drink menus throughout the weekend. From casual seafood spots to late-night dancing, there’s no shortage of places to warm up and keep the celebration going.

Shopping and Strolling the Promenade

Shops throughout town and along the promenade open for the weekend, offering Polar Bear merchandise, Sea Isle City apparel, and unique finds from local retailers. It’s a great opportunity to pick up a souvenir or enjoy a relaxed winter stroll through town.

For a full breakdown of what’s open, entertainment schedules, and special events, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Presidents Day Weekend in Sea Isle City.

What’s Next on the Sea Isle City Calendar

If Polar Bear Weekend kicks off your Sea Isle City event season, spring keeps the momentum going. Be sure to check out our guide to Sea Isle City Girls Weekend, another popular event that brings shopping, dining, and entertainment back to town as the weather warms up.

Why Polar Bear Weekend Is a Sea Isle Favorite

Polar Bear Plunge Weekend 2026 captures everything people love about Sea Isle City: strong community spirit, charitable giving, lively nightlife, and a true offseason tradition that keeps the island buzzing all winter long.

Whether you’re plunging, running, cheering from the beach, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, it’s one of the most memorable weekends of the year. Start planning now, gather your crew, and get ready — Polar Bear Plunge Weekend 2026 in Sea Isle City is coming, and it never disappoints.