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Your Guide to Our Annual Polar Bear Plunge and 5K

Kick off the New Year at Blue Hole Regional Park

A group of runners starting a race under a blue inflatable arch labeled 'Polar Bear Plunge & 5K'.

If you are looking for a fun way to start the new year, the Polar Bear Plunge and 5K at Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect tradition. The community comes together every January to run, laugh, cheer, and brave the ice cold waters of Cypress Creek. It is a little wild, a little chilly, and a whole lot of fun.

Below is your full guide to everything you need to know before you show up on January 3.

Event Details

The Polar Bear Plunge and 5K takes place on Saturday, January 3 at Blue Hole Regional Park. This year’s 5K is a trail run that follows an out-and-back route on our hike and bike trail, providing scenic views of the Wimberley Valley. The race finishes at the swim lawn where runners can jump straight into Cypress Creek for the plunge.

Schedule for the Day

9:15 a.m. Event check in
9:30 a.m. Stretching and warmup on the swim lawn parking lot
10:00 a.m. 5K start
11:30 a.m. 5K finish and awards ceremony
12:30 p.m. Event ends

What You Get with Registration

Your registration includes:

  • Entry into the 5K

  • A special event shirt

  • Drink tickets for a hot beverage

  • A swag bag to start your year with a few goodies

Event items including a blue bag, black shirts, coffee cup, and granola bar for a Polar Bear Plunge and 5K Race.

If you plan to plunge only, you can simply show up at 11:00 a.m. and head to the swim lawn. There is no ticket required for plungers.

Registration Information

Registration is open and spots fill up fast.

  • $35 per person for regular registration

  • $45 per person for day of registration

  • Children under 10 run for free

    • If they want a shirt, they must register at full price

What to Bring

To stay comfortable throughout the morning, make sure you pack:

  • A change of clothes

  • A towel

  • Running shoes and socks you do not mind getting damp

  • A warm jacket or blanket for after the plunge

  • Water and personal snacks if needed

The creek is cold, so having dry layers ready is the best way to enjoy the rest of the event.

Location

Blue Hole Regional Park
333 Blue Hole Ln.
Wimberley, TX 78676

Parking is available outside of the park, and staff will guide you where to go.

Why You Will Love This Event

The Polar Bear Plunge and 5K is the kind of event that wakes up your spirit for the year ahead. The out-and-back trail route offers beautiful views of the Wimberley Valley, the crowd is supportive, and the plunge is a bold way to begin a fresh start. Even if you come for the plunge only, you will feel the energy of the whole community cheering one another on.

We cannot wait to see you at Blue Hole on January 3. Bring your friends, make new ones, and start your new year with a splash.

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