Hundreds Brave the Cold for Special Olympics New Hampshire
2026 Winni Dip Weekend Recap
March 10, 2026
From snow delays to midnight dips, the 2026 Winni Dip Weekend proved once again that a little cold weather can’t stop a community that believes in inclusion.
Over two unforgettable days at the Margate Resort in Laconia, hundreds of supporters took the plunge into the icy waters of Lake Winnipesaukee to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics New Hampshire. The weekend featured three signature events: the Cool Schools Dip on March 6, the 24-hour Mega Dip, and the Winni Dip and Law Enforcement Dip on March 7.
Each event brought its own energy, but together they created something bigger — a weekend filled with courage, laughter, and a powerful show of support for Special Olympics athletes across the state.
Cool Schools Show Up Strong
Friday morning began with the Cool Schools Dip, where students and educators from schools across New Hampshire gathered to brave the icy lake for a cause.
Despite a morning snowstorm that caused two-hour delays at many schools, the determination of these students proved stronger than the weather. Nearly every school still made the trip to Laconia, showing up ready to cheer, celebrate, and take the plunge together.
Their enthusiasm set the tone for the entire weekend, filling the beach with excitement before heading back inside to warm up at the Wild Splash Bash celebration.
A Day and Night of Dedication: The Mega Dip
While the Cool Schools teams dried off and headed home, a small but mighty group of fundraisers was just getting started.
The Mega Dip began at noon on March 6 and continued for a full 24 hours, challenging participants to complete 24 dips into Lake Winnipesaukee in 24 hours. Each Mega Dipper raised at least $2,500 to take part, demonstrating extraordinary commitment to Special Olympics New Hampshire.
Through daylight, darkness, and everything in between, these dedicated supporters returned to the water hour after hour. Their determination, energy, and passion for the athletes never wavered.
A Strong Finish with the Winni Dip and Law Enforcement Dip
The weekend wrapped up Saturday morning with the Winni Dip and Law Enforcement Dip, bringing together longtime dippers, first-timers, and members of law enforcement from across the region.
As waves of participants ran into the lake, cheers echoed from the beach and the ballroom as supporters celebrated another successful weekend of fundraising and community spirit.
After each dip, participants returned inside to the Wild Splash Bash, where hot food, music and awards helped warm everyone back up.
A Community That Shows Up
More than just a fundraiser, Winni Dip Weekend is a celebration of the Special Olympics New Hampshire community — athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters all coming together in support of inclusion.
Special Olympics New Hampshire extends its gratitude to the sponsors and partners who help make the event possible, including Presenting Sponsor Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast and Event Host Eversource Energy.
Additional support was provided by Associated Grocers of New England, McDonald’s, New England Truck Center, and Sunbelt Rentals, as well as Mega Dip supporters HICO, Northern Tree, and Vineyard Restoration.
Making a Difference for Special Olympics Athletes
Every splash into the lake helps support year-round sports training and competition for Special Olympics athletes across New Hampshire.
But perhaps more importantly, the weekend serves as a reminder of what the Special Olympics movement is all about: courage, community, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to compete, belong, and shine.
And if this year’s Winni Dip Weekend proved anything, it’s that when this community comes together — even icy water doesn’t stand a chance.