Ready to make a splash for a great cause? Winter in Westchester and the Hudson Valley isn’t just about cozy fires and holiday lights—it’s also prime time for Polar Plunge fun! These icy dips bring communities together to raise funds for amazing charities, and trust me, there’s nothing like that adrenaline rush when you hit the water. Grab your warmest towel and your bravest friends—here’s where you can take the plunge this season.
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Westchester County
Rye Polar Plunge
Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
Location: Rye Town Park, 95 Dearborn Ave, Rye, NY 10580
Details: Organized by Rye Triathlon Club; registration via RunSignUp ($70 + fee) [runsignup.com], [ryepolarplunge.com]
13th Annual Peekskill Polar Plunge
Location: Riverfront Green, 1 Hudson Ave, Peekskill, NY 10566
Details: Hosted by This Is Me Foundation; register via official site before Dec 30
Hudson Valley
Subzero Heroes Polar Plunge (Highland)
Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Location: Berean Park, Highland, NY 12528
Details: Benefits Alzheimer’s Association; minimum $250 fundraising for participants [events.alz.org], [allevents.in]
Dutchess County Polar Plunge(Poughkeepsie/Wappingers Falls)
Dates: Friday, February 27, 2026 (Marist University – 130 Waterworks Rd, Poughkeepsie) Saturday, February 28, 2026 (Heritage Financial Park – 1500 NY‑9D, Wappingers Falls) Sunday, March 1, 2026 (Eastdale)
Details: Hosted by Special Olympics New York; registration through NYSO events page [events.nyso.org]
Fishkill Polar Plunge
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Location: Heritage Financial Park, 1500 Route 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY
Details: Benefits Special Olympics New York; registration via CSEA NY [cseany.org]
Oakdale Polar Plunge (Hudson)
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 12:00 PM
Location: Oakdale Lake, 132 North 6th St, Hudson, NY
Details: Community fundraiser supporting local water rescue and youth programs
Whether you’re diving into the Hudson in Peekskill, braving the chill at Playland Beach, or joining the Subzero Heroes in Highland, these plunges are more than just a thrill—they’re a way to give back and create unforgettable memories. So sign up, bundle up, and get ready to freeze for a reason. See you on the shoreline!