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Take the Plunge: Brave the chill during Dunleavy’s Pub 30th-annual dive into the Atlantic

Take the Plunge: Brave the chill during Dunleavy’s Pub 30th-annual dive into the Atlantic
January 2025
WRITER: 

The longstanding Sullivan’s Island tradition benefits Special Olympics South Carolina



Spirits are high for those about to dive into the cold surf, as seen in this collection of photos taken before the annual Polar Plunge hosted by Dunleavy’s Pub, a long-standing Sullivan’s Island tradition benefiting Special Olympics South Carolina. Since the event’s inception in 1994, thousands of fans have braved the waters on January 1, kicking off the New Year by donning swimsuits and costumes and submerging themselves in the chilly Atlantic. Want to get in on the fun yourself for the 30th anniversary? Head to the pub—opened by siblings Patti and Bill Dunleavy (pictured to the left of Santa) in 1992—for this year’s festivities, which kick off at 2 p.m. After the soak, head inland to warm up with drinks and food during a block party hosted by several Middle Street restaurants that donate a portion of the proceeds to Special Olympics.