February 2026 in Sea Isle City: Presidents’ Day Weekend and the Polar Bear Plunge

February in Sea Isle City looks very different than the quiet winter weeks that surround it. Thanks to Presidents’ Day Weekend and the iconic Polar Bear festivities, the town briefly transforms into one of the most energetic destinations on the Jersey Shore.

At The Hive, we spotlight moments like this — when seasonal towns come alive and create real opportunities for local businesses, visitors, and event organizers.

Mike’s Seafood Polar Bear Run-Walk & Plunge (February 13–16)

The centerpiece of February in Sea Isle City is the Mike’s Seafood Polar Bear Run-Walk for Autism, a massive, multi-day fundraiser that draws thousands of participants and spectators.

The weekend includes a 5K run, a one-mile walk, and the famous Polar Bear Plunge — a frigid dip into the Atlantic Ocean that has become a South Jersey winter tradition. The event raises significant funds for autism-related causes while bringing an electric, high-energy atmosphere to the island.

This is one of the busiest weekends of the year for Sea Isle City, with packed streets, crowded venues, and nonstop activity.

Presidents’ Day Weekend Festivities

Surrounding the Polar Bear events is a full slate of Presidents’ Day weekend activity. The town features a parade, a block party, and a range of special restaurant and bar events that create a festive, adult-oriented party atmosphere.

Local businesses see a surge in foot traffic, and visitors can expect a lively crowd throughout the weekend. It’s a sharp contrast to Sea Isle’s typical winter calm and a reminder of how impactful well-organized events can be for seasonal communities.

City Meetings and Civic Events

Beyond the festivities, Sea Isle City maintains its regular civic schedule in February.City Council meetings are held on February 10 at 10:00 AM and February 24 at 10:00 AM, with a Budget Workshop on February 12 at 9:00 AM. These meetings offer residents and business owners insight into planning and priorities for the year ahead.

Winter Activities and Quiet Exploration

Outside of Presidents’ Day weekend, February in Sea Isle City is quieter and more relaxed. Visitors can enjoy winter fishing, peaceful walks along the boardwalk, and visits to local shops and restaurants without summer crowds.

This contrast — from high-energy weekends to calm winter days — is part of what makes Sea Isle unique during the off-season.

Important Notes for Visitors

Parking becomes extremely challenging during the Polar Bear Plunge weekend, and visitors should plan accordingly. The environment during this time is busy, festive, and party-focused, while the rest of the month remains chilly and low-key.

For those looking to explore beyond Sea Isle, nearby regional events, such as the Cumberland County Winter Eagle Festival, offer additional winter experiences.

Why These Weekends Matter

Events like the Polar Bear Plunge weekend demonstrate how seasonal towns can generate major economic impact during the winter months. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and local businesses all benefit from the surge in visitors, reinforcing the value of strong event programming.

At The Hive, we highlight these moments to help businesses, promoters, and communities understand where opportunities exist — even in the off-season.

If you’re hosting an event, promoting a business, or looking to be featured in our regional event coverage, The Hive is where South Jersey stays connected.