by:Ellen McIntyre
January 5, 2026

As the countdown hit one, a group of about 200 people stripped down to their bathing suits – and the occasional winter hat – and sprinted into the Atlantic Ocean, braving temperatures in the 30s and a wind chill of 18 degrees for the 13th annual Dewey Dunk.

The event, hosted by the Dewey Business Partnership, started at 11:30 a.m., Jan. 1, at the Dagsworthy Avenue beach, with the plunge taking place at noon.

It was the largest one yet, beating last year’s record of about 120 dunkers.

Participants and bystanders huddled around a bonfire for warmth and enjoyed free hot chocolate. There were also bloody marys, mimosas and Dewey Dunk merchandise for sale.

Volunteers from the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, including a dive team, and other local first responders ensured participant safety.

The event raised $3,400 for the DBP, which is dedicated to enhancing the Dewey Beach way of life by facilitating year-round family-friendly events.