MURFREESBORO, TENN. (WGNS) - Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation is leaning all the way into this Arctic blast, rolling out a refreshed version of the Polar Bear Plunge at SportsCom this Saturday morning (Jan. 31, 2026). If you’ve ever thought, “This event couldn’t possibly get any colder,” Parks & Rec is ready to prove you wrong — but in the most exhilerating way possible.

The morning kicks off at 8:15 inside the warm, cozy SportsCom gym, with everyone entering through the Dejarnette Lane side at Memorial Boulevard. That indoor start is intentional, because the moment you step outside, the thermometer will be sitting at a brisk 8 degrees. And that’s exactly the point. Before anyone heads toward the plunge, participants will take part in the brand‑new COLD RUN — a quick, spirited dash into the winter air designed to “wake up the senses” before the main event. By the time the run begins, temperatures should have climbed all the way to 12 degrees, which somehow counts as progress.

Organizers know longtime participants may confuse this with the traditional Polar Bear Plunge, but this year’s START STRONG AND PLUNGE is all about embracing the cold in stages. First the run, then the plunge — and yes, they really do let you get used to the winter bite before sending you toward the outdoor pool affectionately known as Boro Beach. If you’re worried about the water, don’t be. By plunge time, the air should warm to a balmy 14 degrees, and lifeguards will be on duty to keep everyone safe while they brave the icy dip.

It’s a quirky, spirited way to celebrate winter in Murfreesboro, and Parks & Rec is ready to cheer on every brave soul who shows up. If you need details, directions, or reassurance that yes, this is supposed to be fun, give SportsCom a call at (615) 895‑5040.