January 15, 2026, Press Release from the Seward City Chamber

SEWARD, AK – Ready to make a splash for a great cause? Mark your calendar for the 41st annual American Cancer Society (ACS) Polar Bear Jump in Seward, Alaska, on Saturday, January 17, 2026. This beloved event draws hundreds of brave individuals each year to the icy waters of Resurrection Bay, all to support the American Cancer Society’s vital mission to save lives, celebrate survivorship, and advance cancer research. 

Participants will don costumes, swimsuits, and plenty of courage as they plunge into the frigid waters, each bringing us closer to a world without cancer. Every dollar raised goes directly to support those impacted by cancer in Alaska and beyond, from funding groundbreaking research to providing crucial resources for patients and their families. 

“The Polar Bear Jump brings people together in an incredible way,” said American Cancer Society Senior Development Manager Annette Vrolyk. “This event isn’t just about facing the cold; it’s about building a future where everyone has a fair opportunity to prevent, detect, and survive cancer. We’re honored to host this in Seward and invite you to join us as we create waves of hope and resilience in the face of cancer.” 

The Seward Chamber of Commerce is organizing several fundraising and awareness events in collaboration with local businesses and organizations for the weekend surrounding the Jump, including a Live Auction, Polar Parade, and Memorial Luminary.  Their mission is to bring support to children and families in Alaska battling cancer with the money raised during the festivities of the Polar Jump weekend. 

“The Polar Bear Jump Festival is always a highlight of the dark winter and a time to come together as a community for a greater purpose,” said Seward Chamber of Commerce Communications Coordinator Liz Marsh. “Between a Polar Bear Carnival put

on by Sports & Rec for the kiddos and evening festivities for adults, there is an avenue for everyone in the community to participate and enjoy the weekend.” 

This year’s fundraising goal is $265,000, which will provide critical support for cancer research, education, and patient services. Since its inception, the Polar Bear Jump has helped raise millions for cancer patients and their families, and with your support, we can continue this impactful work. 

Event Details: 

Location: Seward Small Boat Harbor, 1300 4th Ave, Seward, AK 

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026 

Registration: Opens at 7:30 a.m., Jump starts at 12:30 p.m. 

About the American Cancer Society 

The American Cancer Society is a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. For more than 100 years, we have been improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. To learn more, visit cancer.org or call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.