Special Olympics New Hampshire Plunge Weekend is an annual winter fundraising and community sporting event that brings together athletes, students, families, corporate teams, volunteers and supporters to raise funds for Special Olympics New Hampshire.
The 2027 celebration follows the theme “Lights, Camera, Inclusion!” with a Red Carpet Premiere concept. Participants are encouraged to dress in creative Hollywood-inspired costumes, form themed teams and take part in fundraising challenges.
The two-day event includes the High School Penguin Plunge on February 13 and the main Penguin Plunge on February 14 at Hampton Beach. Participants take a courageous dip into the cold Atlantic Ocean to demonstrate their support for inclusion and raise funds for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
The main event features participant registration, a colourful costume parade, organised plunge waves, post-plunge celebrations, lunch and an awards ceremony. Awards recognise outstanding individual and team fundraising achievements as well as the best costumes.
The event also depends on hundreds of volunteers who assist with participant registration, beach activities, safety coordination, photography, hospitality and event management.
Plunge Weekend provides an opportunity for schools, businesses, community organisations and individuals to come together for a meaningful cause while celebrating courage, teamwork, inclusion and community spirit.
Time:
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February 13: High School Penguin Plunge – event timings TBA.
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February 14: Penguin Plunge, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
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9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Participant check-in
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11:30 AM: Costume parade
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12:00 PM: Main plunge
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1:30 PM: Awards ceremony
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