Connecticut’s Penguin Plunge Is Back in Brookfield This March

According to a release from the Brookfield PD, it’s time once again to do something completely insane… for a really good reason.

The Brookfield Police Department has teamed up with Special Olympics Connecticut to host the 2026 Penguin Plunge, also known as “Plunge Candlewood,” happening March 21, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Brookfield Town Beach on Candlewood Lake (460 Candlewood Lake Road).

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Here’s how it works: you put together a team, come up with a fun name, maybe rock some ridiculous costumes, raise some money — and then all of you sprint straight into the freezing waters of Candlewood Lake. Yes, voluntarily.

Every dollar raised goes directly to support the Special Olympics summer and winter games, which makes the temporary hypothermia feel a little more noble. Participants need to raise at least $50 to take the plunge and must be at least eight years old. You can also donate or sponsor a team if you’d rather support the cause without shocking your nervous system.

Now let me tell you something from experience.

I used to do the Penguin Plunge every single year for a long stretch down at Quassy on behalf of the radio station. It is brutal. The second that cold water hits you, your entire body goes into panic mode. Your brain screams, “This was a mistake.” Your lungs forget how to function. It’s chaos.

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But then — and I’m not kidding — there’s this wild wave of euphoria that follows. Adrenaline kicks in. You feel alive in a way that’s hard to describe. It’s freezing, it’s shocking, it’s slightly unhinged… and it’s awesome.

If you’ve never done a plunge before, you should try it at least once. It’s for a great cause, it builds instant camaraderie, and you’ll walk away feeling like you conquered something.

Just maybe bring a towel. And a change of clothes. And possibly a therapist.