Up for a challenge . . . for a good cause?
The bravest swimmers on the South Fork can answer the polar plunge call to raise money for charity by taking a winter dip on New Year's Day in Montauk, East Hampton, or Wainscott.
The first one of the day is on the beach at Gurney's Montauk Resort at 10:30 a.m. Donations collected during the Gurney's polar plunge will benefit the Retreat, a domestic violence shelter program based in East Hampton.
Probably the biggest of them, the East Hampton Polar Plunge at Main Beach, will benefit the East Hampton Food Pantry. Registration begins is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with the plunge happening at 1. Parking nearest to the beach fills up quickly, so for those who plan to join in, early arrival is essential as a long walk from your vehicle is to be expected. The cost is $35 per person, and the event will feature refreshments along with prizes for the plungers with the best costumes. Apparel and 50/50 raffle tickets will be available for purchase.
At 2 p.m. Wednesday, the Seafood Shop in Wainscott will be the starting place for a quick run down to Beach Lane before it's time to jump in the water at 2:30. Alternatively, participants can simply meet at the beach. The cost is $20 per person and proceeds will go to the Sag Harbor Food Pantry.