On January 1st, 2014, The American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) Lincoln Park Chapter and Star Wars geeks united for the 2nd Annual Wampa Plunge, a Star Wars-themed polar plunge. The keepers were raising money for the "Trees For You and Me" program, an initiative to plants trees in local communities and internationally. They were accompanied by members of the 501st Midwest Garrison, a Star Wars costuming group that "troops" for charity. Both groups braved frigid temperatures and an unforgiving wind that made the trek to the beachfront from the Lincoln Park zoo - and the actual plunge - a real challenge! Follow the 501st Midwest Garrison (@501MWG) and Lincoln Park AAZK (@LincolnParkAAZK) on Twitter to learn more about them!
Members of the 501st Midwest Garrison and American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK)Lincoln Park Chapter huddle together at the North Avenue Beach boat house after taking the "Wampa Plunge." — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader and other members of the 501st Midwest Garrison visit the Regenstein African journey House at Lincoln Park Zoo. (Photobomb by Sabrina the giraffe.) — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Two there always are, a Master and an Apprentice. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader and his troopers prepare to make the trip to North Avenue Beach for the Wampa Plunge. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Members of the 501st Midwest Garrison and Rebel Legion Nar Shadaa Base make the trek to North Avenue Beach on foot. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Because the costume makes sitting prohibitive, Darth Vader must make his way by foot to Lake Michigan. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader and Anakin Skywalker with a Snowtrooper. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
"I'm gonna force choke the guy who set this up." — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Troopers often must walk all day since their costumes don't always allow for sitting. It can make for a long day. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader and Anakin Skywalker walk along Cannon Drive. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
The Rebel Legion and 501st Midwest Garrison make their way across the North Avenue Bridge. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader crosses the North Avenue bridge. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader and Stormtrooper take a break from the chilly Chicago winter winds. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Approaching North Avenue Beach where the "Wampa Plunge" will take place. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
The winds were so cold that even Darth Vader's armor froze up. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
These two ladies wanted to take their picture with Darth Vader before going into the water. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Anthony Ponce of Channel 5 News interviews Darth Vader. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Darth Vader looks on as NBC 5's Anthony Ponce interviews the snowtrooper. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
The 501st Midwest Garrison comes out in support of polar bears at the 2nd Annual Wampa Plunge! — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Lincoln Park Zookeeper Marisa Elizalde sets up blankets for when she and her coworkers climb out of the frozen water. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Lincoln Park Zookeepers pose with their polar bear and Wampa mascots before jumping into the water. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
"You're under arrest for having happy feet!" — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Some of the most dedicated Star Wars fans you'll ever meet. — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
Happy New Year from the 501st Midwest Garrison! — Elliott Serrano, for Redeye, Jan. 1, 2014
