Ice Bucket Challenge

It was a perfect storm of fun, absurdity, and charity — who wouldn't want to see their friends get drenched while supporting a good cause? Plus, the challenge created a sense of community and competition that made everyone want to join in.

A viral challenge where people dump ice water on their heads to raise awareness for ALS and nominate others to do the same.

“

I accept the challenge!

— Commonly shouted by participants as they prepare to dump ice water on themselves, popularized during the challenge's peak in 2014.

Participants film themselves pouring ice water over their heads, often while shouting out their nominees. It's a mix of fun and philanthropy, with many saying things like, 'I accept the challenge and nominate...' before getting soaked.

The Ice Bucket Challenge traces back to a fundraising effort in March 2014 in Tennessee, where locals jumped into cold water to support a toddler with diabetes. The viral version kicked off in June 2014 when motocross racer Jeremy McGrath poured ice water over his head and nominated others on Instagram.

1. 2014-03Cold Water Challenge begins in Tennessee to raise funds for a toddler with diabetes.
2. 2014-06Jeremy McGrath posts the first known Ice Bucket Challenge video on Instagram.
3. 2014-07-14Matt Lauer completes the challenge on The Today Show, sparking widespread participation.
4. 2014-07-31The ALS Association reports over $115 million raised due to the challenge.

The challenge exploded after Matt Lauer did it on The Today Show on July 14, 2014, leading to a wave of celebrity participation. By late July, it became synonymous with raising funds for ALS, with millions of dollars donated.