PHOTOS: Plunging into 2024

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Brave souls gathered for the Polar Bear Plunge at Lake Lanier to usher in 2024.

Long-time plunger, Tom Diaz lost his penguin mask and top hat in his quick swim at the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. There is a category of best costume in the event, as well as best splash and fastest exit from the lake. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Long-time plunger, Tom Diaz comes as a penguin to the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. There is a category of best costume in the event, as well as best splash and fastest exit from the lake. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Drew Merrill, from left, Lola Merrill and Camila Montes participate in the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

John Collins looks to get to the dock as he participates in the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. There is a category of best costume in the event, as well as best splash and fastest exit from the lake. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Caleb Collins, from left, John Collins and Linden Martin participate in the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. There is a category of best costume in the event, as well as best splash and fastest exit from the lake. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Choosing a dunk rather than a quick swim, 6-year-old Emery Ellison, visiting from Texas, participates in the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Adam Stephens and Katie Sanders of Johns Creek, participate in the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier Olympic Park on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

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Debbie Cain takes the plunge at the 26th annual Polar Bear Paddle and Plunge at Lake Lanier on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. (Jenni Girtman for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

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Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

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