Reviewed by: Mary Helene Hall
5 ‘Polar Bear Plunge’ events across Alabama in 2026
Reading time: 2 minutes
What is your favorite New Year’s Day tradition? Eating black-eyed peas? Or how about watching something “drop” like a ball in New York City or MoonPie in Mobile?
Another great tradition? Polar bear plunges! And, yes, we have a few of them in Alabama. Here are some events to look forward to, from Decatur to Gulf Shores.
Decatur’s 41st Annual Polar Plunge — Jan. 1
Take a plunge for a good cause — Meals on Wheels. Participation is free, but don’t forget to buy yourself a $20 t-shirt or $30 sweatshirt to help in the fundraising effort.
When: Thursday, Jan. 1 at noon
Where: Ingalls Harbor
42nd Annual Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip — Jan. 1
Visit the iconic Flora-Bama and take a plunge! Costumes are encouraged, and folks that participate fully get a free draft beer and New Year’s plate.
When: Thursday, Jan. 1 at noon
Where: Flora-Bama
Joe Wheeler State Park Polar Plunge — Jan 3
Not free on New Year’s Day? Head to Joe Wheeler State Park a few days later!
Meet in the “Day Use” area at the beach, where Joe Wheeler State Park rangers and members of the Rogersville Volunteer Fire Department will be on site to ensure everything goes smoothly.
When: Saturday, Jan. 3 at 10AM
Where: Joe Wheeler State Park
Venecia’s Foundation Polar Plunge in Piedmont — Jan. 10
A fundraiser supporting cancer patients, the Venecia’s Foundation has held 12 polar plunges over the years in Piedmont. This special organization serves 350-400 patients primarily in Calhoun and Etowah counties in addition to locations throughout the U.S.
Participation in the event costs $10.
When: Saturday, Jan. 10 at 10AM
Where: Piedmont Aquatic Center
2026 Pelham Polar Plunge — Jan. 17
The Pelham Police Department invites the community to participate in the 2026 Pelham Polar Plunge at the Oak Mountain State Park beach. The plunge begins at 1PM, and the event supports the Special Olympics.
When: Saturday, Jan. 17 from noon to 3PM
Where: Oak Mountain State Park beach
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