Chilly temperatures dominate 2004 Lewes Polar Bear Plunge

More than 2,000 people jumped into the Atlantic Ocean Feb. 1, 2004, in what was the second-coldest Lewes Polar Bear Plunge at the time. Event organizers said the temperature in Rehoboth Beach was 28 degrees, with ocean water at 32 degrees. The 2,075 participants raised $330,000 in 2004.

The event continues to be very popular, with the 2025 plunge drawing more than 4,400 people and raising more than $1.2 million for Special Olympics Delaware. This year’s event is set for Sunday, Feb. 1, in Rehoboth Beach.