Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, 5K Run Canceled Due to Storm

Lingering snow and ice conditions force officials to call off annual event

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Special Olympics of Delaware (SODE) has announced the cancelation of the 2026 Lewes Polar Bear Plunge and 5K Run to the Plunge due to lingering snow and ice conditions from a recent storm. Officials say the lack of parking and safe walkways in the Rehoboth Beach area cannot safely support the more than 20,000 polar bears and spectators expected on Sunday.

Why it matters

The Lewes Polar Bear Plunge is a beloved annual event that raises funds for the Special Olympics. The cancelation is a disappointment for the community, but officials say they cannot justify putting people's safety at risk given the current conditions.

The details

Rehoboth Beach's boardwalk and all beach crossings remain snow covered, in addition to many sidewalks throughout the downtown area. Public works and public safety crews have been working around the clock this week, so preparing and staffing the event isn't feasible this weekend.

  • The Lewes Polar Bear Plunge and 5K Run to the Plunge were scheduled for Sunday, February 29, 2026.
  • The decision to cancel the event was made on February 26, 2026.

The players

Special Olympics of Delaware (SODE)

The organization that hosts the annual Lewes Polar Bear Plunge and 5K Run to the Plunge.

Keith Banks

Rehoboth Beach Police Chief, who stated that the city's resources cannot safely support the event this year.

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What they’re saying

“Unfortunately, we cannot justify putting people's safety at risk, nor can we shift our resources to focus on the event.”

— Keith Banks, Rehoboth Beach Police Chief (wmdt.com)

“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.”

— Special Olympics of Delaware (wmdt.com)

What’s next

Event officials still encourage those who were planning to attend to pick up their hoodies and incentives, and consider participating in a Virtual Plunge.

The takeaway

While the cancelation of the iconic Lewes Polar Bear Plunge is disappointing, the safety of participants and spectators must come first. The community is being encouraged to find creative ways to still celebrate the event from home this year.