An opportunity to begin the new year with a chilly dip into Boundary Bay returns for the first time in three years.
The City of Delta’s Polar Bear Swim is back at Boundary Bay Regional Park on Jan. 1.
This immensely popular free event ran for 40 consecutive years until being disrupted by the pandemic. Now it returns in what should be a fun afternoon for all ages.
Residents young and old – many dressed in colourful costumes – will kick off 2023 with a dip in the icy waters at Centennial Beach. While not everyone is brave enough to take the plunge, the shores and beach area are always packed with onlookers taking in the spectacle.
Once again, the first three swimmers to ring the bell will be awarded trophies and prizes.
There will also be prizes for the oldest swimmer as well as the swimmer who has travelled from farthest away.
The pre-swim activities will start at 11:45 a.m. and will include face painting, children activities and a drum circle. The Boundary Bay Lions’ Street Kitchen will also be on site serving hot chocolate.
Registration to participate in the plunge starts at noon and everyone is required to sign a waiver. There will also be draw prizes for children 18 and under.
The swim begins at 1 p.m.
For more information visit: www.delta.ca/community-culture/happening-delta/events-calendar/polar-bear-swim.
