Decatur’s Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day Enjoyable

DECATUR — If your New Year’s decision consists of doing one thing daring, chilly, and community-minded, CAPNA’s annual Polar Bear Plunge at Ingalls Harbor could be the good method to begin 2026.

“The Polar Plunge at Ingalls Harbor is all about fun and community,” mentioned Emma Martin, vice chairman of operations for Decatur-Morgan County Tourism. “It’s utterly free to leap or watch, so everybody can come out, cheer on the plungers, seize a heat drink, and provides again to a terrific trigger.

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“Events like this create core memories and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to this amazing event.”

The plunge takes place at midday Thursday, off the south aspect close to the pier at Ingalls Harbor. Participation is free, and spectators are inspired to return out even when they like to remain dry.

Jumpers shall be rewarded with free scorching chocolate and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck shall be on website for anybody needing additional heat.

Mari Juarez, director of Community Services for the Community Action Partnership of North Alabama, mentioned the yearly occasion focuses on trigger.

“This is the 41st year for the Polar Bear Plunge, and CAPNA has hosted it since 2017,” she mentioned. “From the beginning, the event has always benefited our Meals on Wheels and More program, and it was important to everyone involved that it continue supporting that cause.”

Volunteers will promote commemorative T-shirts for $20 and, new this 12 months, sweatshirts for $30. All proceeds profit Meals on Wheels, which gives nutritious meals and assist providers to native seniors. The program estimates it prices $5.37 to supply one meal and $161.10 to cowl a full month of meals for a consumer in want.

Safety is a precedence, with the Morgan County Rescue Squad readily available all through the occasion. CAPNA recommends water sneakers for individuals and kids ages 10 and underneath should put on a life jacket.

CAPNA serves low-income households throughout the area by means of packages together with Head Start, power help, reasonably priced housing assist, job coaching and senior providers similar to Meals on Wheels.