Polar 5k

2026 Polar Splash & Dash
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Event Time: 10:30am – 4:00pm
Location: Central Park

Bundle up and join Meridian Township Parks & Recreation for a fun and frosty day of racing, family activities, and an invigorating Polar Plunge! This event also serves as a fundraiser for the Meridian Cares program, helping provide emergency assistance to community members facing urgent financial needs. Your participation directly supports neighbors in need throughout the Township.

Pre-Event Schedule
Early 5k Check-In: 5k Check-In @ Playmakers: 11:00am Friday (1/23) until 4:00pm Saturday (1/24)

Event Day Schedule
10:30am – Event Opens / Check-in inside Administration Building
12:00pm – Polar 5K Race Begins
12:15pm – Family Dash Begins
1:45pm-2:15pm - 5k Race Awards Announced
2:30pm – Polar Plunge

Check-In Information
5k Racers can check-in early on 1/23 & 1/24 at the Playmakers store. All family dash runners and plungers must check in the Township Administration Building.
Race participants will receive their bib, safety pins, and route map at check-in.
Polar Plunge participants will receive a plunge wristband and safety instructions.

Race Details
Polar 5K – 12:00pm
Timed race on a marked 5K course.
Water and first-aid available at the finish line.

Awards and results will be posted in the Township Administration Building where check-ins occurred.

Family Dash – 12:15pm
Non-timed, family-friendly run/walk.
Strollers and young children welcome.
Route is fully marked and monitored by staff and volunteers.

Polar Plunge Details – 2:30pm
Plungers will be called in small groups and/or by family.
Proper rescue personnel will be on site at all times.
Warming stations and hot coco will be available immediately after exiting the water.
Participants must wear footwear that secures to their feet (no flip-flops).

Splash & Dash shirts will be given to all participants who register prior to December 31, 2025!!

This 5k race is timed by the Michigan Running Foundation.