Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography 

Ludington Lake Jump

April, 2023

Each year during the transition from winter to spring, area residents and businesses take pledges and try to raise as much money as possible for the Ludington Lake Jump. In return, that person must run into the icy waters of Lake Michigan at Stearns Park Beach on Lake Jump Day. Many local businesses also help out with hot drinks and food at the event.

While the 2021 event was modified to virtual due to concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus, the 2022 event was held as previous to the pandemic. Proceeds from the 2022 event went to the Childhood Cancer Campaign. A non-profit organization which supports families with a child fighting cancer. 100% of the funds raised go directly to families in Ludington, Michigan and throughout Mason County.

Jumpers head into the cold lake to take a dip for charity. | Todd & Brad Reed Photography

History of Lake Jump

2021 marked the 22nd year for the Lake Jump, which began when two local disc jockeys made a dare. Since then, over $600,000 has been raised for local charities, such as West Shore Pregnancy Care Center, Sandcastles Children’s Museum, the Rotary’s STRIVE program and the Ludington Area Center for the Arts. 

In 2015, the Ludington Lake Jump beneficiary was the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum and over $24,000 was raised. In 2016, the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Renovation benefited to the tune of over $7,800, and in 2017 the Mason County Sports Hall of Fame received the proceeds, totaling $22,100. The Lake Jump raised more than $42,000 in 2018, and with the matching gift, a total of $91,700 was donated to the Lakeshore Food Club. In 2019, over $70,000 was raised for the Ludington Splash Pad and the modified 2020 event benefited Lakeshore Food 4 Kids and netted over $76,000.

Click here to see the current temperature of Lake Michigan.

For more information on the Ludington Lake Jump, please contact the event organizer:

Ludington Lake Jump Board of Directors

lakejump.org

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