When four North Olympic beaches host polar bear plunges Friday, Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County will be the beneficiary of challenges for the Port Angeles dip.
In Jefferson County, the dip into cold water on New Year’s Day will be at the Nordland General Store on Marrowstone Island.
In Clallam County, polar bear plunges will be held in Port Angeles, Neah Bay and Beaver.
Port Angeles
The 28th annual Port Angeles Polar Bear Dip is planned for 10 a.m. at Hollywood Beach near City Pier. Parking is at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Lincoln Street.
The Polar Bear Challenge will benefit Volunteer Hospice.
Any individual or organization can challenge another to make the plunge and pledge a dollar amount.
If the challenged person or business accepts, challengers donate that amount to the agency that provides free care for eligible terminally ill and their families.
To issue a challenge or for more information, stop by the hospice office, 540 E. Eighth St., for a brochure or phone 360-457-8133.
On Friday, participants will begin gathering at the beach at about 9 a.m., build bonfires to stay warm — and to warm up after their dip — and enjoy pastries and coffee.
Rules call for each polar bear dipper to submerge himself or herself, and wet suits are frowned upon.
Costumes are welcome.
Forks plunge
The Lake Pleasant Polar Bear Plunge near Forks also will begin at 10 a.m.
Participants will gather at 9:45 a.m. at the Lake Pleasant Recreation Area parking lot on West Lake Pleasant Road.
Neah Bay dip
The 15th annual Neah Bay Polar Bear Dip in the harbor will take place at noon at Front Beach on Bayview Avenue near the senior citizens building
The only requirement is for swimmers to get their hair wet, whatever contortions that requires.
Those who complete their dip to the satisfaction of Neah Bay Polar Bear Club veterans will receive certificates commemorating their chilly achievement.
Mystery Bay plunge
The 22nd annual Mystery Bay Polar Bear Plunge takes place at noon, in Mystery Bay, across from Nordland General Store at 7180 Flagler Road.
Polar bear wannabes begin their leap from the store’s dock at noon.
Attendees can park along Flagler Road, although they may have to walk a short distance to get to the action.
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Reporter Arwyn Rice can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5070, or at arice@peninsuladailynews.com.
