If jumping into an icy Minnesota lake sounds like the ultimate way to kick off the New Year, the Annual ALARC Charity Ice Dive in Excelsior is calling your name. Held every New Year’s Day on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, this legendary Twin Cities tradition combines adrenaline, charity, costumes, and major bragging rights.
Now celebrating its 36th anniversary, the ALARC Charity Ice Dive has been warming hearts since 1990 by raising money for incredible local and national causes while daring participants to start the year with a literal splash.
The ALARC Ice Dive isn’t just about the thrill. All proceeds from the event support meaningful organizations, including:
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation
The Excelsior Fire and Police Departments
The Tonka Nordic Racing Team
Whether you dive or choose the Donate Only option, your participation directly supports charities and service organizations that make a real impact in the Twin Cities.
Additional Info and Donate here: http://alarc.us.com/alarc-ice-dive.html
The Ice Dive takes place along the shoreline of Lake Minnetonka at the Excelsior Public Docks, located at 395 Lake Street in Excelsior, right behind the Port of Excelsior.
Date: January 1, 2025
Time: 9:00 am to approximately 10:30 am
This is a drive-up, jump, and drive-away style event, so timing matters. All divers must follow their assigned dive window based on experience level.
To keep things moving smoothly, divers are scheduled in groups:
9:00 – 9:15: Orcas, Sharks
9:15 – 9:30: Barracudas
9:30 – 9:45: Muskies, Northerns, Walleyes
9:45 – 10:15: Minnows, Guppies, First-Time Divers
10:15 – 10:30: Late arrivals, oversleepers, and New Year’s Eve survivors
10:30: Final dive of the day
If your group includes multiple experience levels, arrive based on the most senior diver.
Once you arrive at the dive site, ALARC Ice Dive staff will guide you through the process. Local firefighters and EMTs are on hand to assist as you enter and exit the water safely. After your plunge, a volunteer will be waiting with your towel or bathrobe so you can warm up quickly.
Certificates of Completion are emailed to all participants after the event, perfect for framing or bragging online.
There are no changing rooms, so plan ahead.
What to wear:
Swimsuit (wear it under your clothes)
Optional costume over your swimsuit
Minimal clothing since cotton holds cold water
What to bring:
Large towel
Bathrobe or blanket
Warm hat and dry clothes
Old shoes for the dive (no flip-flops)
Dry shoes for after
Bag for wet clothes
Do not bring:
Cameras
Glasses
Valuables
A professional photographer will capture the moment, with photos available for purchase later.
Feeling creative? Costumes are encouraged. The top two best costumes will each win a $50 gift certificate.
Veteran divers reaching milestone dives can also purchase official ALARC Shark or Orca robes during registration.
Friends and family are encouraged to cheer on divers from the designated viewing area near the dive hole. To avoid congestion, spectators should arrive according to the dive schedule.
Pre-registration is required. There is no on-site registration.
Cost: $35 per diver
Registration deadline: 9:00 am on New Year’s Day
Divers also have the option to purchase the 2026 Ice Dive Shirt or an Ice Dive Stocking Cap during registration.
In 2014, Excelsior officially earned the title Ice Dive Capital of Minnesota, recognizing decades of this bold and beloved tradition. Nearly 800 divers have taken the plunge in past years, making this one of the most iconic New Year’s Day events in the state.
If you’re looking for a unique Twin Cities experience that combines community, charity, and a serious cold-weather challenge, the Annual ALARC Charity Ice Dive in Excelsior is an unforgettable way to start the year.
Additional Info and Donate here: http://alarc.us.com/alarc-ice-dive.html
