What is a Polar Plunge?
Locals and visitors alike regard a Lake George Area polar plunge as a rite of passage. During one of these events, organized groups of people bravely rush into the freezing waters for a brief period of time. Some courageous individuals even plunge into the lake with very little clothing, or even in costumes.
Once in the chilly waters, though, you won't want to stay in long. Participants are guided back to shore soon afterwards so they can quickly dry off and change into a clean pair of warm clothes.
Why do a Polar Plunge?
There are multiple reasons why so many choose to partake in a Lake George Area polar plunge year after year.
- It's a fun challenge that welcomes everyone, from thrill-seekers to families and groups.
- Certain polar plunge events take in pledges for benefit charities and organizations—a popular example being the Special Olympics New York Polar Plunge.
- Reports actually claim brief exposure to freezing waters actually boosts metabolism and reduces inflammation.
- It's an honored tradition in the Lake George Area, occurring yearly for more than 50 years.
And, of course, a polar plunge creates a fun and exciting atmosphere that leaves cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Who Can Go?
Folks of all ages are more than welcome to participate in, or even just watch, any of the polar plunges taking place. Though, for any children wishing to go in the water, it's highly recommended they have adult supervision at all times.
What Should I Bring?
- Water Shoes or Other Footwear - This is to prevent hypothermia—and your feet from freezing in the icy water and frosty ground.
- A Towel - For drying off once you're out of the lake.
- A Warm Change of Clothes - After getting out of the water, you'll want to quickly dry off and change into some easy-to-get-into warm clothes.
- A Phone or Camera - Capture the memory of you or your party's polar plunge experience.
When Do the Lake George Area Polar Plunges Happen?
There are multiple Polar Plunges that occur in the Lake George Area every winter season—from November through March. Each polar plunge is managed by a different organization with their own creative purpose. Make sure to check out the event pages for more information about a specific plunge.
If you're up to the challenge, try to complete them all!
Exact dates can shift year-to-year based on weather and the day of the week, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific event page right before you go.
Location: Shepard Park
Date(s): November 22, 2025
It's freezin' for a great reason! Grab your friends, family, or co-workers and gather some pledge money as a polar plunge team.
Every year at Shepard Park, Special Olympics New York hosts this polar plunge, with every dollar raised going towards year-round sports training and mental health initiatives for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Begin collecting pledges now, and then proceed to register on event day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with the plunge beginning at 11:00 AM.
Show your support, and be a part of the hundreds participating in this event annually.
Location: Shepard Park
Date(s): January 1, 2026
Also commonly referred to as the "New Year's Day Lake George Polar Plunge," this event has been a New Year's Day tradition in the Lake George Area since 1973.
Waves of 400 people at a time, many wearing bathing suits and costumes, plunge into the lake in 15-minute increments. The first wave enters at 1:00 PM, followed by the next waves at 1:15 PM and 1:30 PM, and so on.
Once everyone has finished, the party continues at the nearby Duffy's Tavern, where you'll find local bands, warm foods, and cold brews from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Become part of a favorite gathering for both locals and tourists alike. You can register for this event on New Year's Eve from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or on New Year's Day at 10:30 AM at Duffy's Tavern.
Good to know:
- Very popular. About 1,000 people take part each year.
- Commemorative Polar Plunge Souvenir - Long-sleeve polar plunge shirts will be available at Duffy's Tavern for $15. Proceeds go towards the local volunteer fire departments.
Location: Shepard Park (First four weekends); Beach Road (Last weekend exclusive)
Date(s): 2026 - February 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd and 28th; March 1st and 7th.
These plunges are part of the Lake George Winter Carnival, a month-long celebration in Lake George Village filled with winter activities and celebrations.
Take part in the ultimate icy dip by diving into the freezing waters of Lake George, right in the midst of the other activities and celebrations happening around.
The plunge occurs every Saturday and Sunday during the carnival at 3:00 PM. You can register in advance on the Lake George Carnival website, or at the info booth at Shepard Park by 2:45 PM.
While the first four weekends will take place at the park, the final weekend dates—March 1st and 7th—feature special Beach Road plunges for a picturesque winter experience.
Good to know:
- Registration for the Winter Carnival Polar Plunge is FREE.
- Great for repeat visitors since there are multiple weekends and dates.
- Easy to pair with other Winter Carnival events.
- Commemorative Polar Plunge Souvenir - Preorder polar plunge tees and hoodies on the Winter Carnival website for an additional fee.
