Lake Lure Polar Plunge New Years Day

Will return in 2023
Hundreds of brave (and crazy) people take the New Year’s Polar Plunge at Lake Lure and freeze for a reason – to support local first responders. Many more come to watch the fun, complete with bonfires to keep warm! The chilly dip takes place on New Year's Day at 12 Noon. It's a very festive time with fantastic costumes and music. Events will all be outdoors on the beach (2724 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure). Registration is $20 with proceeds to support Chamber of Hickory Nut Goerge, Lake Lure Fire & Rescue, and Hickory Nut Gorge EMS. Register online.

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.

Proceeds support Lake Lure Fire & Rescue and Hickory Nut Gorge EMS. They will have 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.