With Christmas around the corner, plans are set for what comes next: the 49th annual White Rock Polar Bear Swim.
Presented by local Rotary clubs and the RCM-SAR5 (Crescent Beach), the Jan. 1 dip is a chilling tradition for hundreds on the Semiahmoo Peninsula, who brave the typically-at-or-below-zero temperatures as a memorable way to welcome the new year.
Those behind the fun say dippers – and those who prefer to stand on the sidelines, bundled up – can expect all the usuals, including the search-and-rescue Yeti mascot, the Polar Bear mascot and prizes.
Organizers last year reported a record turnout – with nearly 4,000 lining the waterfront and pier to watch about 500 hardy revellers rush into the bay.
READ MORE: PHOTOS: Record-breaking attendance for Polar Bear Plunge
Costumes are encouraged.
Registration opens at 11 a.m., near the white rock; the plunge is set for noon.
For more information, visit White Rock Rotary’s Polar Bear Swim Facebook page.
– Tracy Holmes