Vancouver Polar Bear Swim New Year’s Day 2025
bySwimmers and spectators are welcome to the 105th anniversary of the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim on January 1, 2025 at English Bay for the annual cold plunge.
Vancouver Polar Bear Swim
New Year’s Day 2025
Indoor spaces will be available including change rooms, washrooms, and warming tents. Self-serve lockers will be available onsite. Swimmers are encouraged to pack light and arrive ready to swim, as locker space is limited.
- Date: January 1, 2025
- Time: 12:00pm to 4:00pm (official swim time at 2:30pm)
- Location: English Bay Beach
- Registration: Participants are encouraged to register online in advance to receive a participation certificate.
Portable toilets and fan-favourite activities like live music, entertainment, and food trucks will also be available. New to the site this year is the “Bear Garden”, located atop the English Bay Bathhouse, where event spectators can purchase and enjoy a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Swimmers entering the 100-yard Peter Pantages Memorial Race should gather behind the start line at the black-and-white flags. The first three swimmers to touch the marker buoy near the lifeguard boat must provide their names to the lifeguard.
After the swim, participants can pick up their commemorative button at the centre-tower or near the warming tents located across the beach. The event will feature a designated family area and an accessible beach mat to accommodate participants.
2025 Polar Bear Swim commemorative merchandise, such as hoodies, toques, and t-shirts will soon be available for purchase online, with a limited quantity also available on-site.
History of the swim
In 1920, Peter Pantages and nine other brave swimmers started their New Year in style by plunging into the chilly waters of English Bay. The group became known as the Vancouver Polar Bear Club. Since then, the swim has grown into a much loved highlight of the holiday season.
Peter’s granddaughter, Lisa Pantages, will also be joining for her 63rd swim – all but two have been at English Bay. “I’m so excited for another year of celebrating at English Bay, and to experience the energy of everyone who participates,” said Pantages. “Whether it’s your first Polar Bear Swim or your 50th, everyone goes in with the same spirit and comes out with a fresh outlook on the New Year.”
