ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Trading in winter coats for swimsuits, all to support local athletes.

The “Special Olympics Polar Plunge” is back in the Lehigh Valley.

69 News Reporter Sydney Kay was in Allentown Friday with a preview of the chills and thrills behind it all.

Julie Benjamin, Regional Executive Director for Special Olympics PA Greater Lehigh Valley Pocono Region, said the Polar Plunge was moved from its usual location at Scott Park in Easton to Coca-Cola Park, due to the Delaware River being frozen. 

Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge moving to Coca-Cola Park due to Delaware River being frozen in Easton area

Participants will be diving into swimming pools at the park.

Benjamin said about 600 plungers have signed up for the event. Anyone interested in participating can register at plungepa.org.

The money raised at the event will go towards uniforms, sports equipment, and transportation. She said Special Olympics athletes do not pay for the activities they participate in.

15 athletes who were selected to represent Team PA at the USA Games in Minnesota this summer will be at the Polar Plunge Saturday. Some of the money raised Saturday will help pay for transportation to the USA Games, she said.

The group has already raised more than $10,000.