2026 Lewes Polar Bear Plunge Cancelled Due to Snowstorm Conditions
The City of Rehoboth Beach has officially cancelled the 2026 Lewes Polar Bear Plunge and the 5K Run to the Plunge due to unsafe conditions following the recent snowstorm.
City officials say the boardwalk, beach crossings, and many sidewalks remain snow covered, with limited parking and pedestrian access. With more than 20,000 participants and spectators typically attending, conditions are not safe to host the large scale event.
While the main Plunge will not be rescheduled this year, several Plunge Weekend events will still take place:
Friday, February 27
• 4 to 7 pm – Packet Pick Up and Souvenir Sales at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
Saturday, February 28
• 12 to 2 pm – Fire and Ice at the Atlantic Sands Ballroom
• 2:30 to 5 pm – Restaurant Chili Contest
• 4 to 7 pm – Packet Pick Up and Souvenir Sales at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
Organizers are encouraging participants to pick up their hoodies and incentives and take part in a Virtual Plunge. Whether it is snow, water balloons, icy buckets, or a creative cold challenge at home, supporters are invited to share their photos and videos to keep the tradition alive.
Although the beach reunion will have to wait, organizers say safety comes first and look forward to bringing everyone back together in 2027. 💙❄️
