Saturday, a very familiar annual event took place.

The Lake Havasu City 45^th Polar Bear Day Plunge began at noon and aside from the relative non-“polar” conditions, those participating felt the chill of the waters of the lake.

Bethany Hardin, of host organization Havasu Boat and Ski Club, said there were 25 to 30 participants taking the plunge.

Participants run into the water Saturday for the Polar Bear Plunge. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“We’re here for the Polar Bear Day Plunge in Thompson Bay. It’s 64 beautiful degrees with a 53-degree water temperature,” she said.

The Plunge takes place every year with swimmers, water skiers and just a few toes in the water. No wet suits are allowed, so the chill of the moment is experienced by all.

Bob Clark eats hot soup after participating in the Polar Bear Plunge Saturday. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Lee Barta and Paul Ratermann shake hands in the water as they participated in the Polar Bear Plunge Saturday. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jill Hinkle earns a “chicken patch” for only putting her feet in the water and not going in all the way. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene