Lake George Polar Plunge 2025

Celebrate New Year’s Day with an annual Adirondack ritual.

It’s good luck to take a polar plunge on New Year’s Day.

Lake George Village’s annual Polar Plunge takes place on New Year’s Day at Shepard Park Beach. This popular event typically attracts over 1,000 brave participants who gather at the shores of the Queen of American Lakes to feel the exhilarating challenge of plunging into the icy waters of the Adirondacks. It is also among the most recognized Polar Bear Swims in the United States.

Registration starts on New Year’s Eve from 11 am to 5 pm and again on New Year’s Day beginning at 10:30 am at Duffy’s Tavern. The sign-up fee is $10 and directly benefits The Springfield Shriners Hospital for Children and the Lake George Volunteer Fire Department. Long sleeve polar plunge shirts will be available for $10.

Polar plungers in Lake George.

The Lake George Polar Plunge has been a First Day tradition since 1973.

Polar Plungers in bathing suits and costumes dash into the icy lake in waves of 400 people, with the first wave entering the frigid waters at 1:00 pm. Additional waves will follow at 1:15 pm and 1:30 pm. Water shoes are highly recommended.

Afterward, get warm and celebrate at the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge Party with live music from at Duffy’s Tavern.

As with any Adirondack event, everything is subject to change. Luckily, you can stay up-to-date on the latest news and information on the event webpage.

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Upcoming events and things to do in the Lake George region.

Navigate to Shepard Park in Lake George Village.