37th Annual Lobster Dip set for Wednesday in Old Orchard Beach

Hundreds of daredevils and do-gooders will jumpstart the New Year on Wednesday at Old Orchard Beach with an icy plunge into the Atlantic.

Special Olympics Maine is hosting the 37th Annual Lobster Dip on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, at the beach behind The Brunswick at 39 West Grand Ave., Old Orchard Beach

 As Special Olympics Maine’s largest one day fundraiser, this iconic New Year’s tradition brings together nearly 500 participants to take a chilly plunge into the Atlantic Ocean—all to support athletes with intellectual disabilities.

The Lobster Dip is not just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of community, courage, and giving. Participants raise funds in the weeks leading up to New Year’s Day and then gather for the big event to dip into the icy Atlantic. This year, Special Olympics Maine has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $250,000, which will directly support year-round sports training, competitions, and leadership opportunities for Maine athletes with intellectual disabilities.

This year’s schedule:

9 a.m., Registration Opens

10:30 a.m., First Dip Wave

Noon, Second Dip Wave

12:30 p.m., Fundraising Total Announcements and Awards

1 p.m., Live Music Begins

About Special Olympics Maine

Special Olympics Maine provides year-round sports training, competitions, and leadership opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting inclusion, confidence, and skills that last a lifetime.