Polar Bear Plunge Day Cards

Polar Bear Plunge Day refers to community events and traditions in which participants briefly immerse themselves in cold or icy water. The practice grew out of winter-swimming clubs and New Year’s Day swims (for example, longstanding polar-bear clubs in seaside communities) and has evolved into organized charity plunges and local rituals; many events raise money for causes such as Special Olympics or serve as a community New Year’s or midwinter celebration. It is not a single, nationally fixed holiday—dates and formats vary by location—and should not be confused with International Polar Bear Day (February 27), which focuses on polar-bear conservation and awareness.