3,000 Strong Will Plunge Into Freezing Waters for Maine’s Landmark Women’s Wave in South Portland

Registration is officially open for the 6th Annual Women’s Wave, the nation’s largest and coldest International Women’s Day dip, returning to Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

Hosted by Two Maine Mermaids, the event aims to gather 3,000 participants for a powerful, joy-filled plunge into the icy Atlantic Ocean in celebration of strength, resilience, and collective action.

Thousands of women, and anyone comfortable centering the experiences of women, will link arms and walk into the ocean together in a symbolic act of unity and courage.

Organizers hope to stretch participants across all 2,100 feet of Willard Beach, making this the largest Women’s Wave to date. Founders Kelsy Hartley (“Ebb”) and Caitlin Hopkins (“Flow”) describe the event as an opportunity to show up for oneself and for others, harnessing the transformative energy that comes from shared experience.

READ MORE: Check Out This New Thai & Sushi Restaurant That Opened In Westbrook

The weekend celebration begins with the Women’s Wave Party at Austin Street Brewery in Portland on Friday, March 6. New this year, the Women’s Wave Passport, hosted on the Vibemap app, will connect participants with local businesses offering special deals throughout the weekend, encouraging community support.

Participants will gather at noon on March 7, with the dip beginning at 12:30 p.m. (weather date: March 8). With registration now open, the Women’s Wave once again invites thousands to step boldly into the cold together.