ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge will once again make a splash at Sandy Point State Park, welcoming thousands of participants from Jan. 29 through Feb. 1, 2025. The iconic event supports Special Olympics Maryland, which provides year-round training and competition opportunities for athletes and Unified® teammates free of charge.
This year’s Plunge features a lineup of themed plunges to accommodate schools, first responders, corporations, and the general public:
- Cool Schools Plunge: Taking place over two days, Wednesday, Jan. 29, and Thursday, Jan. 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Cool Schools Plunge is an opportunity for students to build camaraderie while supporting Special Olympics athletes. The Jan. 29 event is open to Maryland schools outside Anne Arundel County, while the Jan. 30 event is exclusive to Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Participants must specify their school system during registration.
- Police Plunge: On Friday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., law enforcement, military personnel, fire/EMS, and other first responders are encouraged to join forces for the Police Plunge.
- Corporate Plunge: Also on Jan. 31, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., businesses will gather for the Corporate Plunge. “Motivate your coworkers and team for the coolest team-building experience of the year,” said Maryland Plunge on their website.
- Maryland Plunge: The main event takes place on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with plunges scheduled at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Participants are invited to be part of the “largest plunge in the world.”
“The Polar Bear Plunge is part of Maryland’s history,” said Maryland Plunge on their website. “For the past 28 years, thousands of plungers have jumped into the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay all in support of Special Olympics Maryland. Your dedication to the athletes and Unified® teammates is impactful and has created countless inclusion experiences across the state of Maryland.”
Organizers are aiming to raise $4.75 million during the 2025 Plunge.
Important Details for Participants
- Parking: Parking passes are required for Saturday, Feb. 1. Passes are available online, at Packet Pickup, and on-site at the Plunge, though on-site availability cannot be guaranteed.
- Spectators: Friends and family who wish to cheer on participants from the beach must complete a Spectator Waiver and turn it in at the Registration Tent or Packet Pickup to receive a wristband.
For more information or to register, visit Plunge Maryland’s website.
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