Chicago Polar Plunge: Watch These 'Plungers' Hit The Lake (VIDEO)

CHICAGO, IL — The clear, sunny skies and above-freezing temperatures that greeted participants in the 18th annual Polar Plunge on Sunday morning might not have felt as wintry as previous years. But those mild weather conditions didn't make Lake Michigan feel any warmer.

More than 5,000 "plungers" splashed in the waters along North Avenue Beach as part of a fundraiser for Special Olympics Chicago, according to the sports organization. The event has raised nearly $1.5 million, and the group will continue accepting online donations through March 31.

Over the years, Chicago's Polar Plunge has built a reputation for the celebrity swimmers it has attracted, such as Lady Gaga, Jimmy Fallon and Buffalo Grove's Vince Vaughn. Some of the famous faces who got their feet — and more — wet included former Chicago Bears star Otis Wilson and Miranda Mayo and David Eigenberg of the NBC series "Chicago Fire." Several city aldermen, as well as Illinois Superme Court Justice Anne Burke, one of the founders of the Special Olympics, which started in Chicago and also celebrated its 50th anniversary Sunday.

Go to the Special Olympics Chicago's website for information on how you can still donate online. And go to the organization's Facebook page for more photos from the Polar Plunge.

Participants during the 18th annual Polar Plunge on Sunday, March 4, at North Avenue Beach. (Photo by Joe Vince | Patch)