Where to take a Polar Bear Dip across Canada for New Years 2020
Ring in the new decade with an invigorating dip in Pacific, Atlantic, lake or river water—provided you can do so safely. There is some safety in numbers, and these four events across the country are likely to draw out plenty of brave Canadians. Don your toque and dive in with them.
1. Vancouver, BC: English Bay
This year marks the 100th Annual Polar Bear Dip hosted by the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim Club. From its humble roots in 1920, the celebratory swim at English Bay has taken place in rain, fog and snow. In 2014, over 2,000 swimmers took the plunge; in 2020, approximately 3,000 people will do the dip.
The free event kicks off at 12pm and goes until 4pm. There’s a race for strong swimmers. Be ready to go in the water at 2:30pm.
2. Calgary, AB: Mahogany Home Owner’s Beach Club
Prairie winters are especially harsh, so participants in the Icebreaker Polar Dip must be impressively tough. Taking place on January 11th—not 1st—“Dipsters” are encouraged to raise at least $500 for the SA Foundation’s work against human trafficking.
This event is free to watch but has a registration fee of $34.99 for participants.
3. Toronto, ON: Sunnyside Park Beach
Join the volunteer Toronto Polar Bear club to “do the dip.” Refresh your hangover from New Years Eve and help raise funds for Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre. Pay $30 to participate, then fundraise more to support your chilly plunge into Lake Ontario.
Arrive by 10:30am for the dip at 12pm. Spectators are welcome.
4. Halifax, NS: Herring Cove
The East Coast can see extreme storms and frigid temperatures, so explorers with heart or medical conditions should probably sit this one out. If you’re ready to experience the coldest cold, shed your layers and dip into the icy Atlantic. You’ll feel like a true Canadian as you belt out the national anthem along with a piper.
There’s no cost to take the dip; however, the non-profit organization will be raising funds for Feed Nova Scotia and other local charities. Register and grab some hot chocolate at St. Paul’s Parish Hall starting at 10am, then head to Government Wharf for the dip at noon.
Did you jump into 2020 with a splash?
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