We are back and the 21st ALMOST Annual Penguin Plunge is shaping up to be one for the record books. 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. More than an educational site, it is a community center. Families and friends often meet for an outing and 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 Pledge 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. (Costumes 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 teams that raise the most money.
*1st Place - $300
*2nd Place - $200
*3rd Place - $100
(Cash prize winners will be based on the amount of money raised 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!
Where is the plunge held?
Hampton Ponds State Park, 1048 North Rd, Westfield, MA 01085
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; games, warming up by the campfire, 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.
