On Saturday, February 20, 2016, some brave (and crazy!) individuals will take on the 4th Annual Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge, one of seven polar plunges in Pennsylvania. Jumping into icy water in the middle of winter is no easy task, but a great cause helps to melt away the cold. In 2014, more than 600 people splashed into the Delaware River and raised more than $90,000 for Special Olympics Pennsylvania, an organization that uses sports to transform the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. This unique experience is both thrilling and rewarding for all who decide to take the plunge!
This year, you can head to Scott Park in Easton, PA, to participate in the plunge, cheer on a friend or family member, or show your support by raising money for the cause. Plus, when you stay at The Sayre Mansion, you'll be just a short drive from all of the frozen fun and can warm up with us afterward. We guarantee it will be the one of the coolest things you've ever done, in more ways than one!
What Is a Polar Plunge?
If you're taking on the Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge for the first time, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Be sure to choose your "Plunge Day" outfit and post-Plunge gear knowing that you will be cold and possibly numb. Loose-fitting clothes without a lot of snaps, zippers, or buttons are best, because it's difficult to get those things back on when your fingers and toes don't work well! Also remember to bring two medium size towels, one to dry with and one to stand on, as the sand is quite chilly on bare feet.
The most important thing to remember is that your Plunge experience is whatever you want it to be, so there is no pressure to fully submerge yourself. We recommend you do not go into the water above your abdomen, as the cold water will take your breath away. Don't forget to bring a camera so that you can capture the big moment on film!
If one plunge is simply not enough and you feel compelled to do more, The Super Plunge features an elite group of brave men and women who will stay up all night plunging! Each Super Plunger commits to raising $2,000 and teams of four will plunge each hour for 24 hours into a pool of freezing cold water. Between dips, Super Plungers will retreat to hotel suites where they will be well fed, comfortable, warm, and entertained.
After a wonderful day of excitement, shivers, and bonding with the friendly Lehigh Valley community, head back to your room at our Bethlehem bed and breakfast and slip into a nice warm bath or relax in front of a crackling fireplace. You can enjoy unwinding while reflecting on the memorable day that you were lucky enough to be a part of!
For more information on upcoming events in Lehigh Valley, download our free vacation guide.