Participants run into the river and right back out during the 2024 Parker Polar Plunge along the Allegheny River in Parker on Jan. 1. Butler Eagle File Photo

After watching the ball drop welcoming in the New Year, many people in and around Parker drop themselves in the Allegheny River for a brisk start.

The Parker Polar Plunge will be back Jan. 1, with participants braving the cold to dip into the Allegheny River at 1 p.m.

Mandy Libecco, president of the Parker Polar Plunge Committee, said not only does the event raise money for local emergency response departments and families in need, it is one of the busiest days in Parker.

“It brings a lot of folks to the community, making them aware of the local businesses and restaurants,” she said.

Libecco said the Parker Volunteer Fire Department and Emlenton EMS receive money raised at the plunge, and the plunge committee also meets regularly to allocate money to Parker residents’ needs.

The plunge committee is adding children’s games to the event this year, and will also be selling hooded sweatshirts commemorating the 2025 plunge.

Registration for the event is $15, and includes a T-shirt. Registration Jan. 1 begins at 8 a.m. at the Parker City Boat Launch, 313 N. River Ave.

The Grinch and Gumby were ready to jump into the Allegheny River on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, for the Parker Polar Plunge. Butler Eagle File Photo