Ottertail, Minn. – Registration for the 2026 Ottertail Polar Plunge is now open! This winter tradition not only is a beloved community event but also supports Special Olympics Minnesota’s life-changing programs for athletes across the state.
The 2026 Ottertail Polar Plunge joins 21 other locations for Plunges across Minnesota this season, benefiting individuals, teams, schools and businesses who are eager to support inclusion, community and athlete empowerment. By participating, Plungers will directly fund initiatives like Unified Sports, health screenings, leadership training and year-round competitions.
Funding will also directly help 258 Athletes from across Minnesota attend the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to connect with peers from across the country.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Location: Otter Tail Lake public boat landing (250 MN-78, Ottertail, MN)
Plunge Times: Plunging begins at 12 PM
How to Register: Participants can register individually or as a team at plungemn.org. Registration is free, with a minimum fundraising goal of $75 for each participant. Fundraisers who exceed their goal will earn additional incentives, including exclusive Polar Plunge gear.
Plunge Your Way! For those who want to support but prefer to stay dry, there are “Too Chicken to Plunge” options available! Participants can fundraise without taking the dive but still enjoy the camaraderie and cause.
Event website: www.plungemn.org/events/
About Polar Plunge
The Polar Plunge is a series of events where people jump into a frozen lake to support Special Olympics Minnesota. The first Polar Plunge took place at Como Lake in St. Paul in 1998. Since then, the Plunge has expanded to more than 20 locations across Minnesota. Polar Plunge events are hosted in collaboration with The Law Enforcement Torch Run, the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics in the world.
About Special Olympics Minnesota
Since 1973, Special Olympics Minnesota has been creating a new world of inclusion and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities by providing year-round sports competitions, inclusive healthcare programs, leadership training, and inclusive school programs. Special Olympics Minnesota envisions a Minnesota where every person, regardless of their ability, has every opportunity to thrive and reach their fullest potential.