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18
Check in for the Minneapolis Polar Bear Plunge
It's a bit cold outside, and plenty of folks are cozying up to the fire to get warm as they peruse listings for Minneapolis homes for sale. Meanwhile, the more adventurous residents of the state are slippin' into their swimsuits as they prepare to chill out and relax with their cool friends and neighbors.
While it might seem a little bit crazy to some folks, the Polar Bear Plunge is an area tradition that benefits Special Olympics. On March 2nd, thousands of Minnesotans will take the plunge to show their support for our community and the amazing athletes who give it their all in every competition. If you are looking for an ice breaker for your next dinner party, telling folks, you took the plunge this year is a guaranteed conversation starter.
Taking the Plunge
No one needs to head to St. Thomas to enjoy the water this winter. While it may be a bit cooler, organizers are busy clearing the ice and snow away from Thomas Beach on BDE Maka Ska. This is the 13th year they have done this, and you can bet that at this point they are near masters at snow removal. At 12 pm on March 2nd, those who wielded the shovels to clear the waters will blow the whistle, and polar bears from around the state will dive in to warm the water up.
The schedule kicks off at 10 am on Friday, March 1st with the Cool School Plunge and the Super Plunge. The Executive Challenge follows at 4:30 pm. When the sun goes down, one of the best fireworks displays of the year is scheduled to light up the sky at 7 pm.
On Saturday, March 2nd, registration for the Minneapolis Plunge 5k will start at 7 am with the race following at 8 am The Plunger area and Beer Garden will open at 10 am, followed by the opening ceremonies and "The Plunging" which start at 10:30 am. There will be plenty of music, beer, and festivities throughout the day. The last plunge will take place at 3 p.m., and the festivities will shut-down for the year at 5 p.m.
Raising Money for a Great Cause
The goal for this year's event is to raise $1.89 million for the Special Olympics. These funds help athletes train, travel, and compete around the world. Last year, 4,322 "plungers" dipped into their pockets and raised $1,258,147. This year's goal is the largest the organization has ever set and the more people who take the plunge, the more opportunities they will create for area athletes eager to express their athletic talents.
For Those Who Want to Stay Dry (& Warm)
Jumping into icy water during the winter isn't for everyone. Not to worry though, because there are plenty of other ways you can participate. Organizers need volunteers for the event, too. Volunteers help with everything from check-in and registration to distributing the incentives participants have earned. All volunteers over the age of 12 are welcome to participate. Volunteers are needed from February 27th all the way through March 2nd.
There are plenty of reasons that Minneapolis is among the best places to buy a home in Minnesota. There is so much to see and experience that your family will always have something to do. We invite you to contact us to learn more about area events and to discover the fantastic Minneapolis homes for sale that we'd be happy to show you.