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Participants revel in the cold at last year’s Winter Bear Plunge. (File photo/Wayne Hardy)
There’s still time to make one more memorable moment in 2019 with a “cool” way to celebrate the year ahead.
The annual Winter Bear Plunge is set for this Saturday, Dec. 28, at Unicoi Beach in Unicoi State Park. The event, traditionally held just before New Year’s Day, attracts dozens every year take a quick dip in the lake’s frigid waters.
The event is sponsored by Friends of Unicoi, a nonprofit group of volunteers who work throughout the year to host various events in the park. Funds raised by the group have supported many projects, such as a Wildlife and Heritage Center and a new dog park at the Unicoi State Park Visitor Center.
Participants braving the cold water arrive solo or with groups. Some dive right in and others prefer to wade slowly into the depths.
David Norbage, a former park manager for Unicoi, has taken the plunge several times since the inaugural event. While it might seem “a little crazy” to enjoy hitting the lake in late December, he says there’s plenty to enjoy.
“It’s like an out-of-body experience,” Norbage says with a chuckle.
He recalls taking on the first-ever plunge when temperatures were at freezing. Fortunately, both participants and onlookers can now stay warm and enjoy socializing around a fire on the sandy beach.
“[After that year] it became a tradition to build a big bonfire,” Norbage says.
And if you don’t plan on taking the plunge, event organizers say you’re welcome to cheer on the others or check out the prize raffles on hand.
Festivities begin this Saturday at 9:30 a.m., with event-day registration closing at 10:45 a.m. The Winter Bear Plunge follows at 11 a.m.
Early registration is available by sending an e-mail to friendsofunicoistatepark@gmail.com to receive registration forms. You can also go to the Friends of Unicoi on Facebook and click on “Events.”
Registration on the day of event costs $10 per person or $30 per family. Early registration is $10 per person or $25 for a family. Each participant will receive a commemorative patch at the event.