One of Vancouver's oldest traditions is back on Jan. 1, 2025.
The city's first Polar Bear Swim took place on Jan. 1, 1920, and almost every year since, hundreds, if not thousands, have gathered at English Bay to run into the freezing cold Pacific Ocean.
And then back out.
"Vancouver’s Polar Bear Swim is one of the largest and oldest in the world, and we’re delighted to host such an important and fun community tradition,” says Park Board Chair Brennan Bastyovanszky in a press release.
The event runs from noon to 4 p.m. at English Bay Beach. At 2 p.m. the program begins.
The swim, which starts with a 100-yard dash to the ocean's chilly waters, will take place at 2:30 p.m.
Participating in the swim will be Lisa Pantages, granddaughter of the swim's founder, Peter Pantages. This will be her 63rd time taking part in Vancouver's Polar Bear Swim.
Registration for the event is now open.
Indoor change rooms will be open, and there will be warming tents for after the swim.
Along with the swim, the event will feature live music and entertainment, along with food trucks and (new this year) a beer garden on top of the English Bay Bathhouse.
For those who want to rep the experience, merchandise is available, including shirts, sweatpants, and towels.
