Last year the Penguin Plunge was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. We are back and planning to make the 21st ALMOST Annual Penguin Plunge one for the record books with loads of fun, while supporting the museum. Through the years the Penguin Plunge has raised over $350,000 to benefit Amelia Park Children's Museum. These funds have been essential in keeping the museum open and thriving.
Amelia Park Children's Museum offers fun hands on learning in a safe environment. But beyond that it is a community center. Families and friends often meet for an outing. New friends are made. APCM is a wonderful asset to the community. All of this at an affordable price! Help us to continue to provide awesome learning experiences for children.
Plunge participants:
*Form a team or go solo.
*Register to participate by completing the Online Registration above or by filling out the Paper Registration form above. Email your completed form to fun@ameliaparkmuseum.org, mail it to APCM, PO Box 931, Westfield, MA 01085 or drop it off at the museum.
*Collect as many sponsors as you can, using the Plege Form and/or the Penguin Plunge Fundly page( in process). Participants must raise at least $75 in sponsorships ($50 for students).
*Pick out your best costume. (Costimes are NOT required but they are encouraged!)
*Join us at Hampton Ponds State Park on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
*Take your turn braving the icy water!
Monetary prizes of COLD HARD CASH for the top 3 individuals or team that raise the most money.
*1st Place - $300
*2nd Place - $200
*3rd Place - $100
(Cash prize winners will be based on amount of money rasied online through Fundly as of 11:59 PM January 23, 2026 and/or the amount of money/checks presented at check-in at the Penguin Plunge on January 24, 2026)
Individual Best Costume Award
Best Group Costume Award
Emperor Award
There's lots to do, even if you're not going in the water!
*Roast a marshmallow by the campfire
*Enjoy warm beverages
*Enjoy cornhole or winter games
*Cheer on the brave participants!
*Make a donation or sponsor a plunger!
What time is the plunge?
Registration is from 11:30am - 12:30pm for a 1pm PLUNGE!
What should I bring to plunge?
*We recommend two towels (one to dry off with and one to stand on) and a change of clothes.
*Footwear to wear specifically for the PLUNGE is recommended.
*Costumes aren't necessary, but they are encouraged!
Is there a place to change at the event?
Yes, there will be HEATED changing tents. The tents can be used before and after plunging.
What time should I arrive to plunge?
Participants should check in and/or register between 11:30 and 12:30.
Is there an age requirement to participate?
Children under 18 are welcome to plunge! They need a parent or guardian signature on their registration and they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
What to do after check in?
While waiting to plunge enjoy the other activities; campfire, ice sculpting, hot cocoa & smores. Be ready to plunge. Line up in the pavilion at 12:45pm for a 1pm PLUNGE.
APCM provides an enriching environment where children and their families can learn about themselves, their communities, and the world around them. Integrated throughout the museum is a broad range of creative exhibits and imaginative hands-on activities, which foster a climate of learning and exploration. Central to the museum's philosophy is that children can learn through the arts, history, science, and the region's rich environmental and cultural diversity.
