PENFIELD – Is a polar bear swim on your bucket list?
If so, the “Polar Bear Plunge” is among the many events at this year’s Winterfest at Parker Dam State Park.
It is a fundraiser for the Clearfield YMCA’s scholarship fund to provide memberships to children and families in need.
This year’s swim will take place at 4 p.m. Jan. 29. It’s in its 14th year and hundreds of people have taken the plunge.
A hole is cut through the ice at 12:30 p.m. by park naturalists who explain how ice was harvested for ice boxes before refrigeration.
At 4 p.m., those pre-registered will put on a harness and plunge into the hole. Then, they swim to a ladder at the other end.
Upon exiting the swimming hole, a special polar bear beach towel is given to the swimmer to keep as a souvenir. Those who raise more than $250 are given a hooded polar bear sweatshirt.
People can register to swim by contacting the Clearfield YMCA. Pledge sheets for donations are given to every swimmer.
People can donate money on behalf of someone or make donations as spectators. Call the Clearfield YMCA at 814-765-5521 for more information.
