Would you be willing to enter the freezing ocean on a cold winter day? BRRRRRRR! That’s exactly what large groups of people have been doing for over 100 years on the Coney Island New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge! Coney Island Polar Bear Club organizes this annual event on January 1st, drawing daring people from New York and other places to brave the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean (while many more just stand by in awe). This peculiar tradition has a long history, dating all the way back to 1903, when the health advocate Bernarr Macfadden founded the club. Since then, the event has become increasingly popular, attracting a large number of spectators and allowing the organizers to raise substantial funds for a variety of local charities. It is really impressive and entertaining to see people from all over the city and from different backgrounds unite to enjoy the thrilling sensation of diving into icy waters on the first day of the year, all in the name of worthy causes. For them, participating in the Polar Bear Plunge is not just a way to give back but also an exciting and one-of-a-kind way to start the new year with a bang!
The gathering eventually became an annual tradition, drawing people from many walks of life. People often wear costumes or swimsuits to the Bear Plunge, and some even go the extra mile by sporting hats and gloves to keep warm. Gathering as a group for some chants or stretches is a common way to establish the tone for the experience. Following this, they make every effort to rewarm themselves and celebrate their success (the club even awards certificates to those who succeed).
While the Polar Bear Club itself is currently not accepting new members, the New Year’s Day Plunge event is open to the public and is used to raise funds for various charitable causes for the community. The plunge event in 2024 brought in $125,000. Free public programming, environmental and educational programs, the arts, and other local causes are reportedly supported by the event’s proceeds, which have a substantial influence on the town.
In addition to the positive impact on charity and the community, attending such an event may bring people together in a way that lasts long after it finishes, making it an ideal outing for groups of friends, families, and romantic partners.
We have compiled some useful recommendations in case you are thinking about diving next year:
- It may be daunting to think of getting ready for the cold water, but remember to wear layers, bring a towel and spare clothing, and most importantly, have fun!
- If you want to be warm and energised throughout the event, drinking lots of water before the plunge and paying attention to your body temperature before, during, and after the dive are also important pieces of advice. Enjoy yourself while being mindful of your physical demands so you may remain safe.
- Celebrate your amazing achievement with your fellow plungers by taking part in the post-plunge festivities!
We made a short video to recap this year’s plunge; check it out here and on our YouTube channel. If you watch closely, you might see some well-known faces, such as Kosha Dillz and the MTA Man! Keep an eye out for other famous local faces 🙂