Taking the Plunge in 2017

To many, voluntarily jumping into a body of icy water might seem crazy—but for the thousands of people who take the aptly-named Polar Bear Plunge every year, it’s just par for the course!

Polar Bear Plunges allow people to gather in groups and plunge into the wintry waters of some of the world’s coolest spots, often on New Year’s Day or otherwise early in the year, when temperatures are at their lowest.

Whether for bragging rights, the thrill of the plunge, or the simple knowledge that every plunge benefits a good cause, the surge of “plungers” grows every year. If you want to be one of them, we’ve got a list of some of the biggest plunges around the world! Just take a look below.

Vancouver – January 1^st

If you’re looking for a fun, icy escapade to jolt you out of your holiday stupor, try the Polar Bear Swim on Vancouver’s beautiful English Bay! This is a popular spot year-round for lounging on the grass by the waterfront, or taking your boat out and cruising up the bay—but come New Year’s, the water is transformed into a cold, splashing scene, where eager participants (more than 2000 in some years) make their way into the frosty bay. Of course, it’s all for a good cause—participants can even drop off nonperishables and other donations before taking the swim.

Coney Island – January 1^st

Another New Year’s plunge takes place off one of the country’s most notable recreation spots—New York’s Coney Island! You probably won’t find many beachgoers soaking up the sun at this time of year, but you will find a host of fellow swimmers ready to embrace the icy waters with you. We all know that New York is magical at the holidays—this much-loved event is just another side to the city’s seasonal flair!

The Hague – January 1^st

Swimmers in The Hague, Netherlands have their own preferred way of ringing in the New Year, too. The beach district here—Scheveningen—is home to one of the world’s largest annual plunges, with more than 10,000 swimming at this location alone and more than 30,000 throughout the country! Don’t be fooled by the charming resort-style coast—while the weather may be sunny, the temperatures are still known to dip down toward freezing, making the plunge that much more of a feat!

Chicago – January 28^th

Later in January, Chicago plays host to a plunge of its own. What makes the Windy City’s take on the plunge extra special, is the participants’ devotion to helping local families in need. With every surge into the frosty Lake Michigan, Chicago polar swimmers raise a bit more for the causes they care about.

Long Beach – February 5^th

Another New York swim, Long Beach’s Super Bowl Splash, gives swimmers a chance to jump right in for the Make-a-Wish of Metro New York. The plunge allows participants to rush into the cold water and dry off while enjoying scenic sea vistas—all before heading back inland for Super Bowl fun.

Have you ever taken the plunge—or will 2017 be a start of polar traditions? Let us know, and share your best stories and photos with us below!