Saturday afternoon on Prior Lake was anything but typical.

Those gathering around Sand Point Beach on the north end of the lake were treated to a parade of colorful costumes worn by many of the more than 1,100 “plungers” of all ages who voluntarily jumped into the freezing waters of Prior Lake.

The annual Polar Plunge was held on local shores in support of Special Olympics Minnesota. The event, among the chilliest in recent memory with an afternoon temperature that hovered around 20-degrees, raised more than $308,000.

Hundreds of spectators were on hand to cheer on family and friends. It was a constant stream of plungers who were mostly loud and boisterous as they headed to the jump holding area. Apprehension showed on the faces of some. A few certainly looked like they wanted to turn around and run back to the warming tent before given the go-ahead to jump. Once they stood on the edge, there was no turning back. And then came the screams and splashes. Each had only a brief dip in the lake before making a quick return back to the tent.

Employees from many area businesses and members of local organizations formed teams that jumped together in the event. One of the largest contingents included hundreds of Prior Lake High School students from various athletic teams and clubs who met at the school early Saturday morning, were bussed to the site and among the first to take a dip in the lake.

The event had a large number of police and public safety personnel present to ensure swift handling of any emergency. Four dive team members were also stationed in the lake to assist jumpers if needed.

In its 16-year history of the Polar Plunge being held on Prior Lake, local donations have totaled more than $2.8 million, according to organization officials. Approximately 25 similar events are held throughout the state each year during winter and spring months.