Waukegan, Illinois (December 16, 2024) – The Waukegan Park District and the City of Waukegan are partnering to host the 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge on Wednesday, January 1, 2025 from 10am to 11am at the Waukegan Municipal Beach, located at 201 E. Sea Horse Drive. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County – Waukegan, helping individuals with disabilities participate in camps, athletics, health and fitness programs, and more.

Individuals can preregister for $20 per plunger online or at the Field House Sports, Fitness & Aquatics Center, located at 800 Baldwin Avenue in Hinkston Park. Preregistration will be open until Monday, December 30, 2024 at 12pm. On-site registration for $25 per plunger will be available from 9am to 10:45am on the day of the event. The first 400 plungers will receive a commemorative event shirt.

BCU is the Anniversary Sponsor of the 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge. Headquartered in Vernon Hills, Illinois, BCU is a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union with more than 325,000 members in the United States and Puerto Rico.

Anton L. Mathews, President of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners, stated, “The Waukegan Park District is excited to partner with the City of Waukegan for the 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge. This community tradition has made a lasting difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities for more than two decades. During a cold time of the year, it is heartwarming see the community brave the frigid waters for such an important cause.”

Jay Lerner, Executive Director of the Waukegan Park District, stated, “The 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge is an impactful way to welcome the new year. With an ongoing partnership with the City of Waukegan, the Waukegan Park District is grateful for all the plungers, sponsors, and volunteers who make the annual event a success. Their dedication helps raise awareness and funds for Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County – Waukegan, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to recreation programs.”

Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor stated, “The City of Waukegan is proud to join forces with the Waukegan Parks District for the 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge. This event has become a cherished tradition in our community, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to support a fundamental cause. It’s inspiring to see so many brave souls dive into the cold waters each year, united in their commitment to making a difference for individuals with disabilities.”

More information is available at waukeganparks.org/plunge.