With hundreds of competitions, numerous fundraisers, and many other special events, there is always something to get involved with at Special Olympics New Jersey.

Explore the events below and check out the full calendar of events to see what’s coming up!

Upcoming Fundraisers

Full List of Events

Types of Events

Volunteer, participate in a fundraiser, or cheer on Special Olympics New Jersey athletes in your community. You can also read more about recent events and see photos by browsing the latest stories and recaps!

Athletes in Action

In addition to statewide competitions like Winter and Summer Games, you can attend Special Olympics competitions and tournaments in local communities across the state. Find your local program to see upcoming sporting events close to you.

Volunteer Today

Fun Runs & Races

If you’re ready to get in on the competition—even just for fun—don’t miss our races throughout the year. You can experience iconic landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty and Lincoln Tunnel, or get a little exercise at the Thanks4Giving Dash and Jingle All the Way, all while supporting thousands of deserving athletes!

Additionally, law enforcement agencies have a special opportunity to join the legacy of the Annual Torch Run. Mark your calendars and register today at njtorchrun.org.

Polar Bear Plunges

Be Bold. Get Cold. Our Thanks4Giving Splash and Polar Bear Plunges at Wildwood and Seaside are wildly popular events that bring in crucial funds for SONJ athletes. Grab your friends, family, and colleagues and register for one, or ALL, of our Polar Plunge events this year!

Thanks4Giving Dash & Splash
Polar Bear Plunge at Wildwood 
Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside Heights

Golf Outings and Field Events

Enjoy numerous golf tournaments, including the Perlman Cup, The Higgins Classic, or Garden State Unified Golf Classic.

Unique Experiences

Join us on the tarmac at Newark Liberty International Airport for the annual Plane Pull or come out to MetLife Stadium where you can get out on the field with events like the Snow Bowl flag football tournament.

Why You Should Join Us

Have a great time and get involved in your local community! When you attend a Special Olympics event, you support athletes as well as a variety of SONJ programs, which are offered free of charge to children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

We simply would not be able to serve these families without event participants who help us raise awareness and necessary funds, to continuing providing top-notch programs. Whether you’re on the sidelines, volunteering, or in the race, thank you for your support!

“SONJ is a wonderful organization! Many residents in our town love coming together each year in friendship and fun to support the Jingle All the Way 3k event. It’s a wonderful kickoff to the holiday season.”
—Wendy Coursolle Reiss

“We’re always very grateful to be asked to participate at such a special event where our officers are able to interact with the athletes, and are always humbled by the experience. We also proudly participate each year in the Torch Run, as well as the Polar Bear Plunge that takes place at the Jersey shore.”
—Town of Westfield, NJ Police Department