Despite the occasional 60-degree day sprinkled in, January and February is not beach season in Northern Virginia, and yet you can still put on the swim trunks and take a dive into the water at any of these Polar Bear Plunges. Test your mettle in the cold, cold water and support a good cause while you’re doing it.
Mosaic Plunge
Jan. 19, noon-2 p.m.
Organized by Special Olympics Virginia, take a cannonball into an icy, above-ground pool, placed specifically for the event, at the Mosaic District in Fairfax. If an individual raises more than $300 for the plunge, they will receive a festival t-shirt and beach towel. There will also be a costume contest for participants. // Mosaic District: 2910 District Ave., Fairfax; $100
14th Annual Keep Winter Cold Polar Bear Plunge
Jan. 26, 10 a.m.
If climate change is something that you are passionate about, show it by going for a swim in the frigid waters of the Potomac River. The Chesapeake Climate Action Network has made this plunge an annual tradition and uses the funds raised to help move the region off fossil fuel dependency. // McLoone’s Restaurant: 141 National Harbor Blvd., Oxon Hill, Maryland; Donations
DC 2019 Polar Bear Plunge
Feb. 2, 1-4 p.m.
Head over to Yards Park for DC’s edition of the Polar Bear Plunge through the Special Olympics organization. Jump into two above-ground pools, then enjoy a live band, ice bar, ice activities and food vendors. Donations can be made without taking the plunge. // Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, Washington, DC; $100
2019 Polar Bear Plunge
Feb. 9, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jumping into freezing waters not exactly high on your priority list? Well, you can still partake in the 2019 Polar Bear Plunge at Lake Anna State Park with two new registration options. In addition to the traditional option, sign up for the “too chicken” option, where you can donate to the event but don’t have to get wet. People not local to Lake Anna can also participate in the event virtually, diving into a lake, pond or maybe just some puddles wherever they can. This event supports the EOD Warrior Foundation. // Lake Anna State Park: 6800 Lawyers Road, Spotsylvania; $30
Northern Virginia Polar Plunge Festival
Feb. 23, 2:30 p.m.
One of Northern Virginia’s marquee Polar Bear Plunges, the all-day festival will offer live music, door prizes and more, all capped off—of course—with a swim into the Potomac to support Special Olympics Virginia. No parking will be available at the location, but there will be shuttle services available. // Tim’s Rivershore Restaurant & Crabhouse: 1510 Cherry Hill Road, Dumfries; $100
