San Diego, January 7, 2026
The inaugural Polar Plunge, benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, will be held at the Catamaran Resort Hotel. Participants can plunge into chilly Mission Bay waters to raise funds for local children battling critical illnesses. The event highlights community spirit and aims to inspire philanthropic efforts within San Diego.
San Diego Hosts Inaugural Polar Plunge to Support Make-A-Wish
San Diego, California – On Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon, the Catamaran Resort Hotel in Mission Bay will host the inaugural Polar Plunge, an exhilarating event organized by Make-A-Wish San Diego. This family-friendly occasion encourages participants to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” by plunging into the chilly waters of Mission Bay, all in the name of raising funds to grant life-changing wishes for local children battling critical illnesses. The spirit of community engagement embodied in this event exemplifies the resilience and determination of San Diego’s small businesses and citizens to come together for a worthy cause.
In a time where economic recovery and growth are on the minds of many, events like the Polar Plunge serve as a reminder of the power of local initiatives. Make-A-Wish San Diego has been a beacon of hope, granting over 5,330 wishes since its founding in 1983, demonstrating how local nonprofits can thrive within a supportive community. This event is not just a plunge into the water; it’s a significant plunge into the heart of San Diego’s entrepreneurial spirit, fostering connections and inspiring others to engage in philanthropy.
Event Details
- Date and Time: Saturday, January 10, 2026, 9 a.m. to noon
- Location: Catamaran Resort Hotel, Mission Bay, San Diego
- Registration Fees: $100 for adults; $25 for children aged 6-16
- Registration Includes: Personalized online fundraising page and toolkit
- Post-Plunge Celebration: Hot cocoa, treats, and a bar for adult participants
How to Participate
Individuals interested in making a difference can register individually or form teams at polarplungesd.org. All registrations include access to a personalized online fundraising page and toolkit, simplifying the process of rallying support from friends and family. Participating in the Polar Plunge not only raises awareness but also provides essential funding for Make-A-Wish San Diego, which continues to make a significant impact on the lives of children and their families.
About Make-A-Wish San Diego
Founded in 1983, Make-A-Wish San Diego has consistently changed lives through its mission to grant wishes to children dealing with critical illnesses. The organization serves both San Diego and Imperial counties, welcoming over 200 children annually who travel to San Diego for their wish. In 2023 alone, Make-A-Wish San Diego granted 217 wishes, with the average wish costing around $10,000. This remarkable achievement underscores the value of community engagement and its direct impact on local economic health.
Contact Information
For questions or more information about the Polar Plunge, interested participants or donors can reach out via email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Polar Plunge event?
The Polar Plunge is a family-friendly event where participants plunge into the chilly waters of Mission Bay to raise funds for Make-A-Wish San Diego, supporting children battling critical illnesses.
When and where is the event taking place?
The event is scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Catamaran Resort Hotel in Mission Bay, San Diego.
How can I participate?
Participants can register individually or form teams at polarplungesd.org. Registration fees are $100 for adults and $25 for children aged 6-16, which includes a personalized online fundraising page and toolkit.
What is Make-A-Wish San Diego?
Founded in 1983, Make-A-Wish San Diego has granted over 5,330 wishes for children dealing with critical illnesses. The organization serves San Diego and Imperial Counties, welcoming over 200 children annually who travel to San Diego for their wish. In 2023, they granted 217 wishes, with the average cost of a wish in the region being $10,000.
Who can I contact for more information?
For questions or more information, contact [email protected].
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | Saturday, January 10, 2026, 9 a.m. to noon |
| Location | Catamaran Resort Hotel, Mission Bay, San Diego |
| Registration Fees | $100 for adults; $25 for children aged 6-16 |
| Registration Includes | Personalized online fundraising page and toolkit |
| Post-Plunge Celebration | Hot cocoa, treats, and a bar for adult participants |
| Contact Information | [email protected] |
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