Although it was February with temperatures dropping into the twenty's, it didn't stop people's spirits from participating in the 11th annual Polar Plunge at Brandywine Picnic Park in West Chester, PA- only dressed in their bathing suits for summer weather instead of winter. If you were still half asleep from the night before when arriving at Brandywine Picnic Park, the cold weather and water definitely were able to wake you up. This event, which is held rain, snow, or shine, has gotten 1,700 daredevils throughout the years and has raised a whopping $125,000 for Brandywine River Creeks watershed conservation work and environmental education programs since 2011 when the event started.

I had the great opportunity to participate in this program for the second time this year and was amazed by the spirit and energy of the people participating, as well as the people cheering us on. As soon as I arrived, there were DJ's and people dancing (some to get warmed up before the plunge), various contests throughout the day including best costume, best dog, and most money raised, as well as a gigantic bonfire to keep the participants warm before and after the plunge. At 11:30 when the plunge was about to start, you could feel the energy and excitement of everyone to get in the Brandywine River for a great cause. In case of an emergency during the plunge, the Fame Fire Company Water Rescue Team provided relief by taking precautions to ensure everyone's safety. Unlike other plunges, this was the perfect distance, with participants running to the top of the hill and back, with the water about waist high.

As plungers were running back to dry off from the cold, with their towels in hand on land, hot chocolate, coffee, and various lunch items were provided for all after the big day. If you enjoy getting a little cold while having tons of fun for a good cause, I would highly recommend doing the Plunge to check off your bucket list.