Still looking for a New Year’s resolution?
Leap into the new year and brace for impact in some shockingly cold water with one of the region's polar plunge events coming up this January.
Polar plunges have become an increasingly popular New Year’s tradition in Washington state. This January, two of the most consistent local polar plunges will once again ask people to come join them in the bone-chilling tradition.
A polar plunge generally includes jumping or wading into a natural body of water before running out and attempting to rewarm yourself as quickly as possible.
Polar plunges do have some health risks for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Risks include hypothermia, cold shock, rapid heart rate and others. However, for healthy individuals, it can also have many benefits, including improving blood circulation and muscle recovery, reducing inflammation, improving mood and more.
Offut Lake Resort will hold its annual polar plunge on New Year's Day morning at the Lady of the Lake Public House on Offut Lake near Tenino. A second local plunge will be held at Mayfield Lake later in the month as part of a Special Olympics Washington fundraiser.
Offut Lake Resort Polar Plunge 2026
The Offut Lake Resort north of Tenino will once again hold its annual polar plunge event on New Year’s morning, Thursday, Jan. 1, at 10 a.m. Participants in the Offut Lake polar plunge event leap off of the docks on the lake behind the Lady of the Lake Public House in groups of 10 to 15 people. After entering the water, plungers make a very brief swim to the nearby boat ramp and exit the water.
An hour before the plunge at 9 a.m., the Lady of the Lake Public House will be open to serve attendees plates of biscuits and gravy, loaded bloody mary cocktails and “Granny’s Hot Buttered Rum.”
There is no fee to participate in the local polar plunge; however, participants must sign a waiver before entering the water, and there is a cost for any food or beverages served at the public house.
The restaurant and nearby resort will also hold a New York City New Year’s Eve party the night before. That event begins earlier than many celebrations. The event watches the ball drop in New York City live, ringing in the new year three hours early at 9 p.m.
For more information on the Offut Lake Polar Plunge, visit the Offut Lake Resort Facebook page at https://tinyurl.com/ydxeedzd or give the resort a call at 360-264-2438.
Lewis County Icicle Brigade Polar Plunge 2026
For another chance to take the icy cold plunge, mark your calendars for Saturday, Jan. 24, the date of this year's annual Icicle Brigade Polar Plunge. Like every year, the special event is meant to rally community support and funds for Special Olympics Washington.
Participants, many who dress up in wacky costumes, will run or wade into Mayfield Lake from the nearby Mayfield Lake Park boat ramp. Participants will take the leap at 10 a.m.
The annual event is championed by a long list of supporters, including the Centralia Police Department, the Chehalis Police Department, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office and the Chehalis Tribal Police Department. The event has been organized and supported by state Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Chehalis, since its inception.
Both the representative and local law enforcement agencies are regular and active organizers and participants of Special Olympics Washington fundraising efforts around the county. The two main events are the January Polar Plunge and the annual Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch Run in June.
The Mayfield Lake plunge will emergency medical personnel on site to respond to any emergencies. The event also features enjoyable amenities including warming tents, trailers, food and coffee.
“Whether you jump all the way in, dip a toe, dress up as a team mascot, or simply cheer from the shoreline, your presence makes a difference,” reads a recent opinion piece published in The Chronicle urging Lewis County residents to participate or show up in support.
Participants of all ages are welcome to participate. Those who wish to take the plunge can sign up for free but are required to raise a minimum of $60 toward Special Olympics Washington to participate. To donate to the event or join the polar plunge team, visit https://impact.sowa.org/team/780248.
Those hoping to attend this year's polar plunge should expect to park at Mayfield Lake Park. The parking lot is located at the intersection of Beach and Village roads off of U.S. Highway 12 west of Mossyrock.
