Happy New Year! Looking for a way to kick start your 2014?
Polar Bear swims have been a tradition in Vancouver since the 1920s, one of the oldest New Year’s Day icy traditions in the world, most likely because it’s not frozen here but is cold enough to test one’s mettle.
Unlike myself, over 2000 brave souls test the waters in English Bay each year and with swims in White Rock and Delta you don’t need to make the trek downtown to take the plunge. Ever if you don’t feel like starting your 2014 with a frigid dip in the water this afternoon it may still be fun to go watch the fun.
Vancouver at English Bay Beach; registration begins at 1230 with the swim at 1430
White Rock in Semihamoo Bay at White Rock Beach; noon – 1400
Delta at Centennial Beach at Boundary Bay Regional Park; 1145 – 1315