We’re so excited that after the historic blizzard “Jonas,” you’re ready to make our 11th annual Polar Bear Plunge historic as well. Are you ready to run into the Potomac with a beautiful, snowy backdrop? Please read this entire post for important updates!
First, it is ABSOLUTELY possible to hit our $90,000 goal if everyone does the following 2 things before Saturday:

1. Post a final request for donations on social media with a link to your fundraising page;
2. Re-send email requests to everyone you’ve asked so far (you can save time by forwarding the last email you sent with a short note at the top reminding folks that the Plunge is less than 2 days away!)

We have big plans to use those gifts to bring more clean energy to Maryland, fight back against dirty fossil fuel pipelines proposed in Virginia, and put a price on carbon in the District. Thanks in advance for helping ensure we have the funds to do this great work!
Second, don’t forget that everyone who raises at least $100 qualifies for an “I took the plunge” t-shirt and everyone who raises $350 or more will be entered into our free drawing for a slew of awesome prizes from around the region (restaurant gift certificates, Patagonia and The North Face gear, and more). The drawing will be at the after-party in McLoone’s directly following the plunge.
Here’s all the important information for the big day:
1. Waivers: The plunge is a fun, family friendly event, but it’s not completely risk-free. If you completed your registration on CrowdRise, you signed a waiver form. But any plungers under 18 years of age need to have the waiver form signed by a parent or guardian. If you’re bringing a plunger who is under 18, click here to print a waiver for their parent or guardian to sign and bring it with you on Saturday.
2. Arrival time: You and any friends or family members coming along to support you should plan to get to National Harbor no later than 10:15 a.m. All plungers must register at the registration tents (which open at 10 a.m.) before the program starts at 11 a.m., so make sure you get there on time!
3. Attire advice: You should plan to wear old sneakers or sandals that won’t fall off when you go into the water. You will also be less cold if, in addition to a towel, you bring a robe or a blanket to wear immediately before and after you go in the water. We’ll have foot warmers to put in your shoes that you’ll appreciate especially after you’ve come out of the water.
4. Directions: You can find out how to get to National Harbor, including via public transportation (which is possible, but slow), by going here: http://www.nationalharbor.com/directions. Follow the signs for the plunge once you’re off the interstate highway. You can also enter the address for the after-party into navigation devices for driving directions, as it is adjacent to the parking lot:McLoone’s Pier House, 141 National Plaza, National Harbor, Maryland.
5. Parking: There are enough spots for all in the lot by McCloone’s. The first 100 cars will be given a free parking pass. (Otherwise it costs about $5.)

6. Weather: As this is written, the forecast is for a high in the low-mid 40s with some sun and clouds (better than a blizzard!). Be sure to dress warmly for before and after your plunge!  The plunge will happen rain, snow, or shine.
7. Plunge-time: We’ll have group tents for you to use to take off layers or change clothes before we take our dip, so you can dress for warmth for our opening program. Our plan is to have a short program at 11 a.m., head over to the changing tents by11:20 a.m., and to be in and out of the water by 11:45 a.m.
8. Food and hot drinks: Zeke’s Coffee and Baklava Couture are providing their delicious coffee, hot chocolate, and delectable pastries.
9. After-Party: But that’s not all! Afterwards, plan to stay around for an after-party at McLoone’s, a restaurant right next to where we’ll be doing the plunge. We’ll pick raffle winners and you must be present to win! Plus, this is always a fun and great way to meet some wonderful people: all of you! McCloone’s is generously offering use of their restrooms before the Plunge, as well as a 15% discount on their food and drinks for everyone who is wearing an “I Took the Plunge” sticker (available at the registration table).
10. Volunteers: Do you want to volunteer at the plunge? We’d love to have you! Contact Brooke Harper at brooke@chesapeakeclimate.org to sign up to volunteer.

11. Pets: We don’t encourage bringing your dog (there have been skirmishes in the past). If you feel you have to, you must have your dog on a leash at all times.
Questions? Contact Kirsten Collings at Kirsten@chesapeakeclimate.org.
See you Saturday!