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By Ian Gustafson

Polar Plunge and Curling bonspiel

Special Olympics Red Deer set to host pair of fundraising events

Feb 19, 2026 | 1:37 PM

Special Olympics Red Deer will host multiple fundraising events this weekend, beginning with the 2026 Red Deer Polar Plunge on Saturday and the annual curling bonspiel on Sunday.

The annual Polar Plunge is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run in support of Special Olympics Red Deer.

During the event, individuals jump into cold water in the midst of the central Alberta winter. They participate in the fun event by paying a registration fee and gathering donations from family, friends, and community members that go to support Special Olympics.

The fundraiser will begin with registration at 10 a.m., followed by the plunge at 11 a.m. at the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame.

Those hoping to take part can still do so by registering online; however, you must be at least 16 years old to participate. As of Thursday afternoon, a total of $7,395 has been raised with a goal of $10,000.

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If you don’t want to participate, you can still donate online or sponsor the event.

Meantime, Special Olympics Red Deer will also host its annual curling bonspiel on Sunday, Feb. 22.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Red Deer Special Olympic athletes will face competition among themselves and from athletes from outside of the community at the Michener Hill Curling Club.

It is an open competition that welcomes athletes of all abilities.

Questions about the bonspiel can be directed to Heather Roberts at heatherlroberts@shaw.ca.