A crowd of participants entering the water for the Cold Turkey Plunge

Cold Turkey Plunge Returns For 18th Year On Thanksgiving Day 2019

This year the Nantucket Atheneum Cold Turkey Plunge turns 18!  This annual Atheneum fundraiser features hundreds of spectators and swimmers who brave the cold waters at Children’s Beach on Thanksgiving morning to benefit the Weezie Library for Children. Complimentary hot chocolate, coffee and pastries are generously provided by local businesses.

Individual Plungers and teams are encouraged to have their family, coworkers and friends sponsor their participation in the Turkey Plunge by donating to the event! All proceeds benefit the Nantucket Atheneum Weezie Library for Children, the island’s public library.

Please register online or pick up a Plunge Card at the Atheneum’s main desk. 

On Thanksgiving morning, please arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes early to complete registration and receive your wristband and Plunge tee-shirt (while supplies last).

Skip the line day of and attend advanced registration on November 27nd between 9:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Atheneum. Early Bird gets the worm — or t-shirt in this case! T-shirts will be handed out to all early registrants the day before the plunge and while supplies last day of! 

The Cold Turkey Plunge takes place rain or shine. All funds raised for this event are nonrefundable.