Polar Bear Plunge set for 2 locations this year

Intrepid community members will take a dip in chilly waters on Saturday to support YMCA of Centre County programs.

The Centre County Y’s 19th annual Polar Bear Plunge will take place in two locations this year: Black Moshannon State Park, 4216 Beaver Road in Philipsburg, and Penns Creek at Grace United Church of Christ, 118 Two Steeples Lane in Spring Mills. In past years, the Plunge has been held only at Black Moshannon.

Like last year, supporters can also participate virtually at a location of their choosing and email a video of their plunge to video to [email protected] to be eligible for any incentives or prize drawings.

Saturday’s in-person events both kick off at 10 a.m. with arrival and check-in, followed by warm-ups and costume judging until 10:45 a.m. Awards are presented to individuals or teams for best costumes.

Plungers will brave the brisk waters starting at 11 a.m.

Participants register and pledge to raise at least $50. The event includes fundraising challenges with prizes awarded to those who raise at least $150; Super Plungers who raise a minimum of $300 and can take the plunge three times if they wish; and the Frozen 500 who raise at least $500 and are entered to win a choice of a TV or twohour guided fly-fishing tour.

Awards also are presented for individuals and teams who raise the most money.

Schools can get involved by designating an individual or team to take the plunge (in-person or virtually, including tossing cold water balloons at the plunger, using a dunk tank or other creative ideas). The school district that raises the most money will be presented the Cool School Polar Bear trophy to display until next year’s event.

Participants designate their fundraising for any or all of the YMCA of Centre County branches.