It’s time, once again, for the plunge.

The Friends of Hunting Island will host the 11th annual Pelican Plunge on Wednesday, Jan. 1 at Lighthouse Beach at Hunting Island State Park.

The nonprofit group will look to better last year’s number of 479 ticket-buying participants. Including spectators, nearly 1,000 people flocked to the beach on Hunting Island for the event.

Registration is at noon at the Lighthouse Shelter – you can also register on the Friends of Hunting Island Facebook page – and the plunge goes off at 1 p.m.

Adult tickets are $10, and kids are $5. Proceeds benefit Hunting Island State Park-s beach and trail maintenance and the conservation and support of its wildlife.

Last year, the temperature in Northern Beaufort County reached an unseasonable 79 degrees. Water temperature in the surf at the popular state park was a tepid 58 degrees, drawing the biggest crowd in recent memory.

Plungers won’t be quite as lucky this year – as of Monday, Dec. 23, the forecast for New Year’s Day calls for sunny skies and a high of 60 degrees.

Plungers and spectators can enjoy hot beverages, snacks, and a costume parade. Each registrant receives an “I Took the Plunge” sticker and two coupons worth $1 each to purchase refreshments. Souvenir Pelican Plunge T-shirts will be on sale at the gift shop, as well.

Park entry fee is not included in the registration fee. Jan. 1 is the last day to use the 2019 Friends of Hunting Island decal for park entry. Memberships for 2020 can be purchased on site.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/rugwn5h.
<h2>Want to Plunge?</h2>
<b>What:</b> 11th annual Pelican Plunge

<b>When: </b>Noon, Wednesday, Jan. 1

<b>Where:</b> Lighthouse Beach, Hunting Island State Park.

<b>Cost:</b> Adults $10, kids $5. Park entry is not included.

<b>How to register:</b> Visit https://tinyurl.com/rugwn5h, the Friends of Hunting Island Facebook page or register at noon on the day of the event at the Lighthouse Shelter.