The annual polar bear plunge into Lake Tapps began in 2006 when Scott Thorsteinson and his cousin decided to go for a midnight swim.

Seven years later, the event has grown to a neighborhood favorite. Participants numbered close to 250, with about 175 brave enough to take on the icy lake.

Thorsteinson lives in Driftwood Point with his wife and together they decided to move the party to Driftwood Point Park in 2011. Their dock just wasn’t enough to accommodate everyone that wanted to participate, he said.

Since then, it has taken place promptly at noon on Jan. 1. It was at that time, a food drive was integrated into the event. This year, $200 and 730 pounds of food was donated to the Sumner Food Bank.

“Winter time is so boring,” Thorsteinson said. “It started as a way to have a crazy, fun time but now it’s such a good thing for the community.”

This year’s theme was wedding dresses and Thorsteinson said he even donned a wig with his white dress. Next year’s plunge will possibly boast a Seahawks or super hero theme, he said.

After a quick dip, community members warmed up next to a bonfire, welcoming the new year with a little fire and ice.