The Big Freeze: Polar Bear Plunge Celebrates 5th Anniversary on Jan. 1

You don’t have to be crazy to jump into Puget Sound on New Year’s Day, but it might just be a requirement.

Edmonds has its own version of the so-called Polar Bear Plunge, celebrated nationwide, and members of the Edmonds Uplift Society will once again splash into the waters of Bracketts Landing North on Jan. 1.

The upcoming plunge marks the fifth anniversary of the event locally, which Brian Taylor and other members of the nonprofit Edmonds Uplift Society dreamed up. The group, which describes itself as a drinking club with a social conscience, requires the plunge for membership. Fees collected go to a membership robe and to benefit the Edmonds Historical Museum.

All members and nonmembers are welcome to freeze for a reason.

Because some lubrication may be needed, Edmonds Uplift Society members will meet at 11 a.m. at Daphnes of Main Street, which Taylor owns. At 12:30 p.m., glasses will raise in a toast while members sing “God Bless America.” Those participating will then march down Main Street to Brackett’s Landing, plunging into the chilly waters at 1 p.m.

Fees are $100 for new members and $25 for existing members. The fee includes an embroidered Edmonds Uplift Society robe, member card and one 24-ounce of Rainier beer.

The deadline to register is Dec. 9, and only checks or money orders will be accepted.

The Edmonds Uplift Society takes its name from an Edmonds Museum photo from the 1930s showing a 1930s social membership group, drinking Rainier beer, with the name "Edmonds Uplift Society."

The photo is now on display at Daphnes, 415 Main St.