Snowy weather set the stage for one of the most beautiful Polar Bear Club gatherings yet as hundreds of people converged at Lakeside Park in Jacksonport to brave the cold air. Before the event began, the air temperature was recorded at just 22 degrees while the water temperature was recorded at a slightly-warmer 32 degrees. After a brief countdown, participants ran all at once into Lake Michigan, some wearing only their swimsuits while others opted for more clothing. J.R. Jarosh, the founder of the Jacksonport Polar Bear Club, said the 33rd edition of the event was one of the best in recent memory.
While most participants ran in and immediately ran back out, some stragglers remained in the water to give high fives and thank members of the Jacksonport Fire Department who were on site for safety reasons.
