Get ready to jump into the Atlantic Ocean and "wash away 2020” at Ocean City’s Penguin Swim.

If you’re the type who likes to dive into 45-degree water in the dead of winter, you’ll want to keep reading. Ocean City’s 27th annual Penguin Swim will go on as planned on Friday, January 1, 2021, at 1 p.m. With so many events of this type being canceled or taking to the virtual side of things, this may be just the way to get 2021 started off on the right, albeit a very chilly, track.

The event takes place on the beach at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel between 91st and 94th streets on New Year’s Day. Penguin Swim registration is $25 per person. You can register online or in-person on the day of the swim, just in case you happen to be walking along and decide you want to dive into ice-cold water. The deadline for registration is 12:30 p.m., so you have plenty of time to work up the gusto to take the plunge. 

Between plungers and bystanders, this event usually draws hundreds. This year, of course, proper social distancing will be strictly enforced. Face masks and physical distancing are required for everybody in attendance, whether you’re plunging or not.

The Penguin Plunge serves as a fundraiser for Atlantic General Hospital to continue its quality care for the community. According to the website, "Individual and team fundraising efforts by Penguin Swim participants enable Atlantic General to continue to provide that care, but they can’t do it alone! Business sponsors help make the event a great success as the Penguin Swim is one of our largest fundraisers in support of Atlantic General Hospital’s mission."

In addition to the real plunge, there will be the option to do a “Cyber Swim.” Those who prefer to plunge on their own can register online and take an ice-cold dip wherever they happen to be. Take this as an opportunity to be as creative as you wish. Post a photo or video on your favorite social media platform (it must be shared publicly) using the hashtag #OCPenguinSwim.

Important Notice: Due to the unpredictability of COVID-19, details are tentative and could change.

Have you ever participated in a polar plunge? Do you have any tips for plunging into ice-cold water? Let us know in the comments.