Polar Bear Plunge: All the amazing action that raised $1.7M for Special Olympics NJ!

What a weekend!

On Saturday, Big Joe Henry joined Special Olympics New Jersey for the 2016 Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside — broadcasting from Spicy Cantina as 6,052 people hit the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean to raise more than $1.7 million dollars.

Couldn't make it? It's not too late to donate online. And We'll do our best to walk you through some of the excitement you missed.

Big Joe had the honor of meeting up with some of Special Olympics' athletes and supporters as the party got started in Seaside Heights:

There were huge smiles all day throughout the Cantina and the boardwalk. Even hours before anyone hit the water, the energy was contagious.

Joe had the honor of welcoming the crowd to the 2016 Polar Bear Plunge — and introducing Ronnie Brooks, who sang the National Anthem:

And as always, the big guy counted down to the big moment:

Want to see what it's like a little closer up? Our friend Andy Chase over at 105.7 The Hawk gave it a shot.

Why do they do it? Let NFL punter and Super Bowl Champion Steve Weatherford explain:

And if there was any doubt the Plunge is effective, listen to Retired Major Kevin Burke tell you what the "plungers" accomplished:

Here's the thing about the Polar Bear Plunge — long after everyone dries off, the party goes on. Well, $1.7 million sure does sound like something to celebrate.