Fourteenth annual Dewey Dunk is biggest yet
Neither the 26-mph wind gusts nor the feel-like temperatures in the 30s could stop nearly 120 people ringing in the new year by jumping into the Atlantic Ocean as part of the 14th annual Dewey Dunk put on by the Dewey Business Partnership.
The 2025 Dunk, which took place Jan. 1 at the Dagsworthy Avenue beach, was the largest one yet. According to DBP Executive Director Kelly Palladino, 80 participants preregistered, and around 40 more showed up on the day, plus spectators.
“It was fun, not as bad as I expected,” said Chris Jacky, a first-time dunker. “The half-second when you get out is the worst part.”
Volunteers from the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company attended to ensure participant safety. Some, donning neon-yellow safety vests and protective equipment, stood waist-deep in the water to establish a boundary line for participants.
