Onset Polar Plunge 2025 Unites Community in Icy New Year’s Tradition [VIDEO]

Nearly a thousand brave souls and spirited supporters gathered at Onset Beach on January 1 2025, for what turned out to be one of the best New Year’s polar plunges yet.

The Buzzards Bay Coalition hosted a fun Polar Plunge Party that brought together locals for a refreshing start to the year, all while supporting a worthy cause.

The free plunge featured music, vibrant energy, and plenty of reasons to celebrate.

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Food trucks like The Filling Station, Crabby Coffee Co., and Raad’s Caboose served up tasty bites, while Tranquil Tides Mobile Sauna offered participants a chance to warm up after their icy adventure. Half of Tranquil Tides' proceeds went directly to the Buzzards Bay Coalition, aiding its mission to protect local ecosystems and waters.

The plungers came with various motivations.

Some dove in for the thrill, while others took the plunge in memory of loved ones. The Onset Bay Association honored Earl A. Fowler, and Curran’s Calling led the way with their own team dip before the main event.

As the clock struck 11:59, excitement filled the air. With microphone in hand, I rallied the crowd and joined the frontlines to lead the charge.

“Are you ready?!” I shouted, prompting an echoing countdown: “5, 4, 3, 2, 1… GO!”

Cheers erupted as plungers raced into the bay, met with surprisingly mild water for January. The initial shock gave way to exhilaration as I dove beneath the surface, emerging with a sense of renewal and refreshment.

Laughter, shivers, and smiles surrounded me as the community celebrated together, embracing the new year with camaraderie and courage.

Special thanks go to the Onset Fire Department and Wareham Department of Natural Resources for ensuring everyone’s safety during the event.

Here’s to new beginnings and the hope that next year’s plunge will be even bigger for this great cause.