STAFFORD CONNECTICUT

Format

12:00pm - 1:00pm - Check-in & Registration

• Pre-registration is now closed, but day-of signups are also cool (literally). No matter when you signup, all participants are required to sign a waiver on event day and acknowledge safety precautions. 

• Registration/Check-in: will take place on the sidewalk at the front/main entrance of Staffordville School, under the awning. All participants must check in to sign the waiver form and complete any necessary paperwork. Upon completion, you will receive a wristband indicating your successful registration. Please ensure you arrive before 1:00 pm.

• Plunging Sequence/Time: Plunge times will be assigned during check-in, with each Plunger/Team receiving a designated jump time noted on their wristband. Following the event welcome at 1:00 pm, the first Plungers will enter the water, with subsequent waves or "heats" occurring in 5-minute intervals until 3:00 pm.

• Lineup: Please gather at the "Plunge Gate" on the beach at least 10-minutes before your designated time. An area has been specifically designated for on-deck Plungers, complete with tables for you to keep your belongings sand-free.

• Staffordville School: the building will be open and serve as a heated changing/staging area if you prefer to stay indoors until your Plunge time. Bathrooms are also located in the school.

• Conditions: The water at Staffordville Beach is clear of ice! Registered teams are able to remain as a cohesive unit during their plunge!

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1:00pm - Let the Paddy Plunges Begin!

Plungers will be called in groups to take the exhilarating plunge into Staffordville Lake. Each group will have its moment to brave the icy waters and make a splash for a good cause.

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2:10 PM - Too Chicken-to-Plunge 

Announcements and recognition for those who opted-out of the plunge, but donated as a too "Chicken-to-Plunge" participant. announcements on the beach.

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2:50 PM - Sponsor Recognition

Gratitude to the generous sponsors who helped make this event possible.

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3:00 PM - Total Raised Announcement

The moment we've all been waiting for! The total amount raised during the Stafford Polar Plunge will be announced and shared online. Witness the collective impact of your efforts and contributions to the Stafford Recreation community.

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 Parking

 

• Limited Parking at Staffordville Beach: Parking space at Staffordville Beach is limited, and attendees are encouraged to carpool with their group or others who will be present.

• Overflow Parking at TTM Technologies: Overflow parking is available at TTM Technologies, located at 228 Upper Road. The front lot adjacent to the street is designated for overflow parking. If you park here, follow the posted signs to walk over to Staffordville Beach. Please be respectful of their property and generosity for its use.

• Kealy Field Parking Lot: an ideal meeting point for coordinating carpool arrangements to Staffordville Beach with members of your group. While it serves as a convenient carpooling location, we do not recommend walking from this spot.

 

Other areas of note & recommendations:

• Refreshments: Enjoy baked goods prepared by the Stafford Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, available for purchase to support the department. Boy Scouts will also be selling candy bars to raise funds for their Pack. Please have cash on hand to contribute to these worthy causes! Complimentary coffee and hot chocolate will be generously provided by the Events & Celebrations Committee.

• Pledge Forms: If you've gathered pledges, kindly bring your completed forms and collected contributions. The grand totals will be calculated and announced on the beach!

• Attire: Opt for loose clothing that can be easily taken off after your plunge. Remember to bring a warm change of clothes that are quick and easy to put on.

• Footwear: Wear a pair of old shoes, aquatic shoes, etc. You’ll have to walk outside and sometimes wait a moment for others to jump, so please wear a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. Don’t forget to bring a pair of dry shoes to wear afterwards!

• A beach bonfire will provide both ambiance and warmth, along with several patio heaters. 

• The Coop: For those registered as "Too Chicken to Plunge," we have a specially designated area that also functions as a front-row cheering section.

• Stay safe and have fun!

 

While rain is forecasted for later in the afternoon, we do not expect this weather to dampen the event. The schedule remains unchanged!

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Thank you for your involvement in the Polar Bear Paddy Plunge, which directly contributes to the Summer Recreation Camp Program. Your support is greatly appreciated!