Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register online?
Yes! Starting on October 1st, online registration is scheduled to open. You can register, select shirt type & size, and list a group affiliation. Online registration will close on Thursday December 26th, 2024 at 11:59 pm. After that, on-site registration will be on January 1st starting at 10:00 am.
** The deadline to guarantee a shirt size selection is December 1st. After that we will do our best to fulfill shirt requests.
What are the deadlines for the 2025 event?
Oct 1st: Online registration is scheduled to open.
Nov 15th: Charity applications are due for the 1/1/2026 event.
Dec 1st: Online event registration shirt guarantee ends. This is also the sponsor logo deadline to be printed on the shirts.
December 26th: Online event registration ends at 11:59 pm.
Jan 1st: The Penguin Plunge happens at 1:00 pm!
How much is it to participate?
For the first time since the beginning, we are adjusting our registration fees a little bit this year. We have also increased our goal of how much to donate to our selected charities! Starting with the 1/1/2025 event, adult registration for the Penguin Plunge is $15 ($10 for 12 & under). To register and receive a t-shirt is $30. To register and receive a sweatshirt is $45. All money raised from registrations, shirts and sponsor donations are distributed to the selected charities for that year.
How can I get the shirt/s that I want?
We can only guarantee your shirt selections with online registration until December 1st. After that, we will do our best to fulfill your shirt request. At the event, we only have a limited inventory on-hand, so arriving early is a good idea for best selection.
Can I pick up my shirts before the event?
We had a successful early pickup day in December 2023. Stay tuned for more information about when/where to pick up shirts in late December 2024!
Do I have to get in the water?
No! We appreciate your registration, and you do not have to get in the water if you do not want to. “Towel-holders” are very necessary, so please consider registering as a Towel Holder and stand by for someone who will need their towel after getting in the water! Supporting our selected charity is why we’re there, and there’s no pressure to get in- especially if it’s too cold for comfort!
What are the contest categories?
On 1/1/2025, we will have a variety of contests! The ever-popular biggest group and best costume (individual, child and group), and a return of the oldest and youngest participants. There will also be a kid’s sandcastle building contest! Be sure to register with your group name and age to be counted and be creative with your costume or the costumes for your group! (Please keep in mind we are a family-friendly event)
How is the charity selected?
We accept applications from eligible local charities for the upcoming Penguin Plunge event. The charity application form will be available on this website in August, or by request. Requirements are that the charity is a 501(c)3 organization and located in Carteret County.
** The deadline to be considered for the 1/1/25 Penguin Plunge is Nov 15, 2024.
What will the shirt color be this year?
We choose a different color shirt each year. Sometimes it is difficult to match the sizes and styles with exact matching colors. Look for a shirt color announcement on social media in the fall!
What is the Scavenger Hunt all about?
Between August 7 and December 18, there will be 20 weeks of a scavenger hunt each week. Clues will be posted on FB each Wednesday and finish each Saturday at 10pm. Each correct photo answer will earn 1 entry into a drawing that will take place at the Penguin Plunge event on 1/1/2025. For more information, please visit our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/PenguinPlunge.AB.NC