February 23, 2026 – Residents are invited to brave the cold for a cause as the 25th Annual Decatur Polar Plunge returns Saturday, March 7, at the Beach House on Lake Decatur.
The event is part of the statewide Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. Participants raise funds and take an icy dip into Lake Decatur to support athletes with intellectual disabilities across Illinois.
Now in its 27th year statewide, the Polar Plunge raises critical funding for more than 29,000 Special Olympics Illinois participants, including traditional athletes, Young Athletes, Unified partners and peer partners. Funds help provide year-round sports training and competition, as well as leadership development, health education and personal growth opportunities. In 2025, the event raised more than $3 million and drew over 10,000 plungers across Illinois.
The Decatur event schedule includes plunger check-in and walk-up registration from 10:00 to 11:45 a.m., along with a complimentary Plunger Brunch during that time. The official plunge kickoff, including costume judging, begins at noon, with awards scheduled for 1:15 p.m. While plungers receive a free brunch, family members and spectators are welcome to attend and may purchase brunch or breakfast items on site.
Participants are required to raise a minimum of $100 in donations and can earn incentive prizes along the way. Those looking to save time on event day can attend a pre-registration event Thursday, March 5, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The Hall @ 520.
To register or learn more about the Decatur Polar Plunge, Click HERE.
