by Belle Holt
The Polar Plunge– also known as the Polar Bear Plunge, is an annual event that takes place every year around New Year’s Day in a variety of places in the world. The event brings together hundreds of people who, in turn, join together to jump into the ocean as a way to signify a new year. The event has different names depending on where it is held. For instance, Old Orchard Beach calls their Polar Plunge the “Lobster Dip” and Portland named their’s the “Polar Bear Dip & Dash.”
The proceeds from the events are donated to a variety of different programs and charities. One of the largest Polar Plunge events held in the U.S. since 1998 is located in Long Beach, New York, where thousands of people take the plunge on Superbowl Sunday. Last year on January 15th, 2022, Belfast held a fundraiser to aid refugee relocation and support services in the state of Maine. They were able to raise a total of $5,500 with their original goal being only $2,000.
Overall, the event is a great way for people to celebrate a new year and to not only get together and have a fun time but to raise money and help support a cause!