Hard to imagine now, but warm weather is coming and the town has set the annual Polar Plunge for March 28. Shown are those who ‘took the plunge’ in 2025. Photo/Herald photo file

Oyster Bay Town Board on Feb. 24 unanimously approved a slate of charitable and community events scheduled throughout 2026, several of which will take in the Massapequas.

Among the first events on the calendar is the Town of Oyster Bay Special Olympics “Polar Plunge,” set for March 28 at TOBAY Beach. Last year’s event raised $130,000 to support Special Olympics New York, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino led participants into the water in 2025 and is expected to do so again this year.

The Special Olympics Spring Games will be held May 2 at Berner Middle School. More than 500 Long Island athletes are expected to compete in track and field events designed to promote physical fitness and inclusion.

John J. Burns Park will host several events later in the year, including the Shootout for Soldiers lacrosse tournament on July 8 and 9. Held in cooperation with USA Lacrosse, the event honors American veterans and has raised more than $1.9 million for veterans organizations since its inception. One game is reserved exclusively for veterans, who participate free of charge.

The Challenger Jamboree Baseball Tournament, a Little League-sanctioned adaptive program for children with physical and intellectual challenges, is scheduled for Oct. 4 at Burns Park.

The U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Toy Drive will take place Dec. 5 at John Burns Park, where residents can donate new, unwrapped toys for Long Island children.

“We are thrilled to host so many wonderful events throughout the year that are not only free for our residents, but that also highlight the great work of organizations like the Special Olympics of New York, the Challenger Baseball Little League Program, and the Shootout for Soldiers, among others,” Saladino said. “Events like these help raise awareness about the importance of giving back, supporting local organizations and individuals of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.”

“These events help highlight the great work of important organizations against the beautiful backdrop of our Town parks and beaches,” Councilman Steve Labriola said. “We are thrilled to offer these programs for our residents free of charge to provide families with a wonderful opportunity to not only have a great experience but know that in many instances they are helping a great cause.”

Councilwoman Laura Maier noted that many of the town’s programs have become annual traditions for families. “From the largest car show experience on Long Island to fun sporting events that help raise awareness for important causes, many of our events have become a special annual outing for our residents to enjoy,” she said.

Source: Massapequa Post