Thousands of enthusiastic participants braved the chilly waters across British Columbia to partake in the beloved annual tradition of Polar Bear Swims on New Year’s Day. White Rock, celebrating the 55th anniversary of its dip, saw an impressive turnout with estimated crowds ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 individuals.
Amidst the celebrations, Melanie Smith from the White Rock Polar Bear Plunge expressed relief over the favorable weather conditions. “We’re really happy it’s not raining,” she remarked, noting that rainy weather tends to deter participants. On this occasion, temperatures reached five degrees Celsius, with water temperatures slightly higher at seven and a half degrees, making the plunge seemingly inviting.
Such invigorating swims weren’t limited to White Rock alone. Other cities such as Vancouver, Port Moody, Kelowna, and Prince Rupert also hosted their own frigid festivities. Vancouver’s swim, which traced its origins back to 1976, initially saw 641 brave participants. Each year this tradition draws more people, eager to embrace the invigorating challenge and kick off the new year with an exhilarating experience.
