Be Bold, Get Cold During 2023 Polar Plunge

The annual Versailles Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Indiana will take place February 18 at Versailles State Park.

Photo provided.

(Versailles, Ind.) - Jumping into freezing water in the middle of winter may seem ridiculous, but for the past 24 years, thousands of people have braved the elements to support Special Olympics Indiana during the annual Polar Plunge.

The 2023 Polar Plunge season will kick off Jan. 28 and continue through March 4, with 18 different events happening around Indiana. The Versailles Plunge will take place on Saturday, February 18, at Versailles State Park. Registration will be held from 11:20 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with the Plunge set to begin at 2:00. 

This bucket-list event challenge individuals and teams to be bold and get cold — taking an icy dip to demonstrate their commitment to the cause.

As Special Olympics Indiana’s signature fundraising series, participants must raise at least $85 for the chance to plunge at one of 15 locations statewide: Bloomington, Boonville, Borden, Fort Wayne, Greenwood, Indianapolis (Butler University and Eagle Creek Park), Muncie, North Manchester, Petersburg, South Bend, Terre Haute, Valparaiso, Versailles and West Lafayette. More than 3,000 individuals take the plunge in a typical year — many of them raising significantly more than the minimum.

Plungers who raise the $85 minimum will earn a commemorative long-sleeved T-shirt. For those who reach higher fundraising levels, additional prizes will include a metal tumbler, beach towel and more. Plus, the Virtual Plunge program is perfect for anyone who wants to join in the fun without getting their feet wet. Virtual Plungers are eligible to receive the same fundraising prizes, and on Plunge Day, they can stay warm and dry while cheering on Polar Plunge participants from the shore.

Additionally, the Super Plunger program recognizes the bravest souls with the warmest hearts. Those who raise $4,000 or more and plunge at two sites will receive VIP treatment at the final event of the season as well as the top fundraising prize — a baseball-themed Polar Plunge jersey available exclusively for Super Plungers.

Back again for 2023, the Freezin’ for a Reason Fun Run/Walk challenges runners and walkers of all abilities to complete a 5K or 3K through the state park. Participants who complete the challenge will receive a finisher’s medal.

If jumping into an icy lake on a cold February day is not your cup of tea, then try an icy “cup” of Dogfish Head Pumpkin Ale at The Hassmer House Tavern & Inn. Proceeds from the sales of the crafted ale on Plunge Day - Sat, Feb 18th - will be donated to the Versailles Plunge. The Hassmer House is located on the square in downtown Versailles.

Spectators are welcome and admission into the park and the heated festival tent is free. Festivities leading up to the Plunge include the Lions Club Food Court, the Polar Plunge Coffee House, “Razzle Dazzle” Basket Raffle, carnival games, facepainting, and Polar Plunge souvenirs. After the “big dip” in the lake, stick around for the announcement of basket raffle winners and Plunge participant awards.

All funds raised during Polar Plunge events benefit more than 16,000 athletes throughout Indiana and help ensure an ever-growing number of children and adults with intellectual disabilities can participate in the state’s sports, health, education and leadership programs at no cost. To date, the Polar Plunge has generated more than $10 million for Special Olympics Indiana.

The 2023 Polar Plunge series is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Indiana and sponsored by Duke Energy, DePuy Synthes, Steel Dynamics and Taft. Additionally, the Versailles Plunge is supported locally by the Knights of Columbus District 28, Brown & Kress, DDS, Batesville Fraternal Order of Eagles, North Dearborn Conservation Club, Aurora Fraternal Order of Eagles, Haag Ford, Aurora Lions Club, Lions Clubs of Ripley County, Napoleon State Bank, Steve’s Sunoco, Civista Charitable Foundation, Penski Truck Rental, The Eagle 99.3 FM, Ferrell Gas, Ellis Events, Best Way and Dearborn County Water Rescue. Visit SOIndiana-ROD.org/PolarPlunge to learn more about the 2023 Polar Plunge events, register and donate to participants.