Your Guide to the Main Event

Lights. Camera. Dip! 

Before you take the Dip, review everything you need to know about Dip Day at the Margate including arrival information, check-in, the dip experience, and the post-Dip celebration.

All dippers must sign a waiver before dipping. Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian complete their waiver. 

The Law Enforcement Dip Premiere

Saturday, March 6th - The 2027 Law Enforcement Dip!

8:00 AM -10:00 AM Check-in at the Margate
10:15 AM Costume Parade
11:00 AM Dip!
11:30 AM Lunch
12:30 PM Awards
1:00 PM Departure

Arrival and Red Carpet access

The Margate opens for check-in at 8 AM. We recommend that Dippers arrive no later than 9 AM. Dippers can park at the Margate. There is overflow parking across the street if needed.  All dippers check in before heading to the ballroom.

The Winni Dip and Law Enforcement Dip take place simultaneously. Waves and awards are separated, but all participants will enjoy the day together.

After check-in, Dippers and their guests (all must have wristbands) relax before the Dip in the ballroom which is located in the tunnel between the Inn and the Lakehouse.  There will be music and a selection ofcomplimentary refreshments from our event partners. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

strike a pose

Whether you're walking the red carpet solo or arriving with your whole cast, we want to see your creativity shine! Individuals and teams are invited to participate in our Costume Parade before the Dip. A panel of judges will select the winners, which will be announced during the awards ceremony following the Dip.

Need some inspiration? Consider:

  • Your favorite movie characters
  • Hollywood stars and celebrities
  • Superheroes and villains
  • Animated classics
  • Famous duos, trios, or movie casts
  • Musical icons and rock stars
  • Award show glam and red-carpet fashion
  • TV show favorites
  • Sports legends
  • Original creations inspired by the movies

Pro Tip: Teams that coordinate around a common theme often steal the show!

It's showtime

After the Costume Parade, Dippers will be called by wave to exit the ballroom heading left up the stairs into the bar / changing area.  Every Dipper will be assigned to a wave at check-in.  Waves limit the number of people taking the Dip at one time to about 30. Teams are always kept in the same wave.

Changing areas will be available for Dippers only. When you enter, volunteers will guide you to an open space to change and help keep things organized. Only Dippers are allowed in the changing tent and Dip area.

Male and female dippers will have separate changing areas. You'll change into the clothes you'll wear into the water. You'll leave anything that isn't going in the water with you in the 5-gallon bucket.  Please do not bring items with you that will not fit into a 5-gallon bucket.  We recommend that Dippers do not leave valuables in the changing areas.

After changing, Dippers will head to the beach for their wave. When it’s time, your group will make a splash together in the lake! After your dip, you’ll receive a towel and head back to the bar to change into dry clothes before returning to the Ballroom.

Pro tip: Wear something on your feet. Wool socks are a game-changer.

The After Party

After your dip, warm up in the Margate Ballroom and enjoy a nice lunch.

After all Dippers return, there will be an award ceremony.  Awards will be presented for:

  • Top Individual Fundraiser (person that raises the most money)
  • Top Team (the team that raises the most money)
  • Top Fundraising Team (the team with the highest per Plunger average)
  • Best Individual Costume
  • Best Team Costume
We'll keep the celebration moving so you can head home with great memories, a full stomach, and bragging rights from your latest dip.

Before the credits roll

Weather: Rain, snow, or shine, the show goes on! The Dip will take place as scheduled, so we encourage participants and guests to dress appropriately for the forecast and outdoor conditions.

Wristbands: Everyone attending the post-Dip Celebration must have a wristband. Dippers receive one complimentary guest wristband at check-in, and additional wristbands may be purchased for $20 each at check-in. 

Lights. Camera. Impact.