Sun-Times file photo
Through the years, it’s attracted the likes of Jimmy Fallon, Vince Vaughn and Lady Gaga — as well as thousands of others willing to charge into a frigid Lake Michigan at North Avenue Beach to raise money for charity.
But the organizers of the Chicago Polar Plunge announced Tuesday the annual event — now in its 21st year — is going virtual. Blame the coronavirus. Organizers say it’s the first time in the event’s history that the event had been canceled.
Last year, the plunge raised about $2.2 million, with about 4,800 people participating. The money goes to support the 7,500 participants of the Special Olympics Chicago/Special Children’s Charities program.