Lake Lure Polar Plunge New Years Day 2018

January 1, 2018
Hundreds of brave (and crazy) people take the annual New Year’s Polar Plunge at Lake Lure and freeze for a reason – to support local charities. Many more come to watch the fun, complete with bonfires to keep warm! The chilly dip takes place on New Year's Day every year at 12 Noon on January 1. Registration is 10 until 11:30 AM and is a very festive time with fantastic costumes and a live DJ. All photos on this page were taken on January 1, 2016.

Most years, the plunge is held at the beach. For 2018, it will be held at the pool at Lake Lure Inn (2771 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure) since the lake level will be down for winter maintenance.

Hats off to plenty of fun costumes and originality. It proved to be a tough job for the judges to pick the winners.

Bring your camera to capture great memories.

Prizes were given for best costume, youngest, oldest and plunger who traveled the furthest. Love the Ninja Turtle and the deer in headlights!

Is that Darth Vader? This year, a portion of the proceeds will benefit our Lake Lure Fire and Rescue along with other first responders.

Come early to enjoy the excitement and good times. There is no admission fee for spectators.

Waiting to run into the water - the penguins had a slight advantage at the Polar Plunge.

Many made a quick dash in and out, while others splashed around and took a swim.

Lots of screams, laughs and victory signs in the 45-degree water of Lake Lure. The plunge started eight years ago with just 23 plungers.

Yes, that is a Viking playing bagpipes (Rocky Top) with Colonel Sanders.

The cost of the Plunge is just $20 and includes your Plunge Permit, a Plunge Towel and the popular Plunge Beanie. They will have also towels and sweatshirts for sale. 

Directions: It is located about 27 miles from downtown Asheville. Follow I-240 East to Exit #9, Highway 74A East to Bat Cave and continue on Highway 74A to Lake Lure. Nearby is Chimney Rock Park.