Chicago Polar Plunge 2024

The Chicago Polar Plunge, held annually at North Avenue Beach, raises funds for Special Olympics Illinois, which supports athletes with intellectual disabilities. Participants plunge into the icy waters of Lake Michigan, but the event is designed to be fun and inclusive. If you don't feel up to a full plunge, you can choose to go ankle-high or knee-deep instead. Regardless of how deep participants go, the event fosters community spirit and provides crucial support to Special Olympics Chicago athletes.

Schedule & Registration

No registration is required for the Chicago Polar Plunge, and your donation directly supports Special Olympics Illinois and Special Children's Charities. After the plunge, participants can warm up at the "Melt Down Party," which runs from 11 am to 2 pm and features music, food, and hot drinks, creating a lively and fun atmosphere for everyone.

History of Chicago Polar Plunge

The Chicago Polar Plunge, organized by The Lakeview Polar Bear Club, has become a popular annual event since its humble beginnings in 2001. The event was founded by Brian Marchal, who, new to Chicago, decided to start a polar bear club and jump into the freezing waters of Lake Michigan on New Year’s Day. Despite only three people showing up that first year, Marchal persisted and organized the first charity fundraiser on January 25th, 2003. Today, the Polar Plunge attracts thousands of participants, with notable figures like Vince Vaughn and Lady Gaga having joined in the chilly fun in past years.