Hundreds of people will take a cold dip into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s Day for the 36th Annual Lobster Dip. It is the biggest winter party on Old Orchard Beach to kick off the New Year, all to raise funds for Special Olympics Maine.  

Dippers will converge in front of The Brunswick, the largest oceanfront patio bar in Old Orchard Beach. The first wave of dippers head into the ocean at 11:00 a.m. and the second wave starts at noon. To participate, each dipper must raise a minimum of $100 by registering online. People can register as an individual dipper or create a team of five or more.  

Last year, the annual event had over 1,000 people in attendance and raised more than $175,000 for Special Olympics Maine. “This is our biggest one-day fundraiser of the year and a perfect way to kick off 2024 in a powerful, meaningful and impactful way.” states Sawyer Boulette, Director of Marketing and Development for Special Olympics Maine. Funds raised will continue to support year-round statewide programs, training, and competitions while helping to empower and fulfill the dreams of over 5,000 people with intellectual disabilities served by Special Olympics Maine. This year’s fundraising goal is set at $200,000.  

Lobster Dip apparel such as a Commemorative Lobster Dip long sleeve-shirt, jacket, sweatshirt, or half zip shirt and more will be earned by those who raise $100 or more. Live lobsters will be given to the top individual fundraiser and top fundraising team. Dippers are also encouraged to dress in their most creative attire for the “Parade of Costumes;” prizes will be given to best team and individual costumes. 

Following the dip, warm up at the after party with food, beverages, raffles, 50/50 drawing and live music from two of Maine’s hottest bands, 12/OC, and Something Stupid, as they rock the stage inside The Brunswick.  

This year’s event is proudly sponsored by Kennebec Savings Bank, Bill Dodge Auto Group and Total Mortgage Group.  

To register, information about sponsorship opportunities and for more details, visit www.somaine.org or contact Sawyer Boulette at SawyerB@somaine.org.   

About Special Olympics Maine: 

Special Olympics mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community. In Maine we serve over 5000 athletes and offer 90+ events year-round at the local, state, national and international levels.