Start your New Year differently this year! Though a quiet morning with a cup of coffee and resolutions sounds delightful, how about sprinting into freezing waters instead? Every Jan. 1, brave swimmers across Toronto and the surrounding area take part in Polar Bear plunges. This is an icy tradition that gives you an adrenaline rush but also connects you to the community.
From Lake Ontario beaches to waterfronts, New Year’s Day plunges have popped up across the region, ranging from charity events to goal-setting groups. Whether you’re in it for the thrill, a good cause or bragging rights, there are some spots where you can ring in the New Year with a cold-water plunge.
Just be sure to bring a towel, warm (and dry) clothes, proper footwear and some courage!
You’ll have to travel out of Toronto for this one. Head over to Coronation Park in Oakville, Ont., to take part in the Courage Polar Bear Dip. On New Year’s Day, take a dip to raise funds for clean water projects in Honduras and Ghana.
Be sure to register online and pay the $30 fee, or fill out a Paper Registration Form and bring it to the park with the $30.
When: Jan. 1, 2026
Time: Registration begins at 12:30 p.m., dip at 2 p.m.
Where: Coronation Park – 1426 Lakeshore Rd. W.
Cost: $30
Take part in a record-breaking community cold plunge in support of Jack.org for Youth Mental Health programs across Canada.
When: Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Where:
Cost: Free – donations accepted
Dip for a good cause! The Polar Bear Dip at Sunnyside Park is hosted by Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (Boost CYAC). All proceeds will go towards the group that supports children and youth under 18 years in Toronto who experience sexual offences, severe physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and violence.
This year’s fundraising goal is $50,000. Last year, they managed to raise $70,000. Time to support once again.
When: Jan. 1, 2026
Time: Dip starts at noon
Where: Sunnyside Park Beach area on the waterside by the bathing pavilion – 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Cost: Registration fee – $30. All proceeds go to Boost CYAC
Have fun out there!
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