Polar Bear Plunge Returns to Jacksonport

Participants in the 2016 Jacksonport Polar Bear Plunge wade into the icy lake water. Photo by Len Villano.

The Jacksonport Polar Bear Club (JPBC) is preparing for its annual plunge into Lake Michigan on Jan. 1, 12 pm, to celebrate the new year with an icy dip. After canceling last year’s event, organizers are calling this the 35th and 36th annual event.

More than 500 swimmers are expected to take the plunge, which makes this polar bear event among the largest in the country.

Registration for all swimmers will begin Jan. 1 around 10:30 am in the park shelter closest to the lake in Jacksonport’s Lakeside Park. All swimmers are asked to sign a liability release form before participating in the free event. Participants may complete a form at the registration pavilion or download it at JacksonportPolarBearClub.com before the plunge. 

Free certificates of achievement will be available at registration, along with JPBC merchandise for purchase and buckets for donations to the Jacksonport Volunteer Fire Department. Loud Entertainment DJ Service will provide music on the beach, and participants and spectators should listen for instructional announcements. 

Find out more, including tips for swimmers, at JacksonportPolarBearClub.com, and look for updates to be posted on Facebook.