DAVENPORT, IOWA (September 21, 2026) — Special Olympics Iowa invites the public to show their support for Special Olympics Iowa by taking the plunge at the annual Davenport Polar Plunge® on Saturday, September 26, 11AM (with registration and check-in scheduled 9:45-10:45AM) at The Ridge Social Drinkery. Approximately forty individuals are expected to take the Plunge.
The Polar Plunge is a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses to show their support for Special Olympics Iowa athletes and Unified partners by taking a dip in frigid waters. Individuals and groups can participate in the plunge by plunging solo or as a team, tossing a boss, sponsoring an individual or team, or volunteering at the event.
Plungers will jump into Special Olympics Iowa’s mobile polar-plunge trailer, a state-of-the-art “pool on wheels” which allows Special Olympics Iowa to host polar plunges almost anywhere. Those not interested in plunging into cold water can register as a “chicken” and raise pledges without entering the water.
Individuals must raise a minimum of $75 to participate. Everyone that raises a minimum of $75 will receive a T-shirt, the opportunity to plunge, admission to the pre-party, a meal, and prizes. Fundraising beyond the minimum enables participants the opportunity to earn additional incentive items.
“It is inspiring to see the public come out and support not only the athletes within their own communities, but all Special Olympics Iowa athletes,” shared Erin Small, Event Coordinator.
“I look forward to seeing the different costumes teams come up with and the overall excitement around the Polar Plunge. Every plunger and chicken receives a t-shirt and meal with their registration, in addition to the goodwill feeling of supporting thousands of Iowans with intellectual disabilities.”
All proceeds benefit Special Olympics Iowa and help to continue providing year-round sports-training and competition, health education, Unified Champion Schools, and leadership programming for more than 9,855 Special Olympics Iowa athletes and Unified partners.
Thank you to the Davenport Polar Plunge® sponsors: The Ridge Social Drinkery, Texas Roadhouse, and Davenport Fire Department.
About Special Olympics Iowa
Special Olympics Iowa provides high-quality training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities in all 99 counties of Iowa. Twenty-three Olympic-style sports are offered to more than 9,855 athletes and Unified partners year-round. Through Special Olympics’ athletic, health, school, and leadership programs, individuals with intellectual disabilities reach their full potential and experience inclusion in their communities every day. Engage with us on: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Learn more at soiowa.org.
