Polar Bear Swims, Polar Bear Plunges, Polar Bear Dips, Dives or Dunks - whatever name you give it, the idea is the same. Every year crowds of people take a few moments out of New Year's Day to put reason aside and fling themselves into the nearest large body of very cold water. One session of shivering and splashing is all that's needed to consider yourself a part of the Polar Bear Club, and Toronto has no shortage of members.
If you'd like to take the plunge yourself, the best idea is to find a well-organized large group event. These are generally done in support of a charity, with swimmers taking pledges and spectators making donations to the chosen cause. As well, there are plenty of safety precautions taken to try to keep all swimmers safe. Still, there are inherent risks involved in these swims, so all of the events listed here come with detailed warnings and waivers. It's important you read them carefully before you decide to take part.
Toronto-Area Polar Bear Clubs
The Toronto Polar Bear Club
These folks dip into Lake Ontario each New Year's Day in support of Habitat for Humanity Toronto. The swim takes place at Sunnyside Beach in Toronto's west end. The Toronto Polar Bear Club website has a map, forms, and recommendations for swimmers. Supporters can also make pledges online, so if you're more willing to open your wallet than your winter coat, the website is still worth a visit.
The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip
This long-running swim takes place in Oakville at Coronation Park. Beyond large numbers of participants and spectators every year, the
Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip offers a full-on party, with live music and a costume contest. Funds raised go to World Vision Canada.
The Clarington Polar Bear Swim
(2010 details TBA)
East of Oshawa, Clarington's Polar Bear Swim is held in support of two causes. Donations are given to Sick Kids Hospital to support research into pediatric liver disease, while the people of Clarington simultaneously work to raise awareness about organ donation. Visit The Clarington Polar Bear Swim website for details on both the swim and the raffle prizes and gift packs available to participants.
Polar Bear Club Related
Toronto Winter Swimming Club
If you find you enjoy cold-water swimming too much to only do it once in your lifetime (or even once a year), you may be interested in this group's website - the Toronto Winter Swimming Club apparently likes to take regular off-season dips at Cherry Beach!
Polar Bear Habitat & Heritage Village
Oh, you wanted to swim with actual polar bears? Then you've just got to get yourself to the Polar Habitat & Heritage Village in Cochrane, Ontario. It's a long trip, but it’s also the only place around where you can go for a swim while polar bears do the same on the other side of a glass divide. While the habitat is open for visitors year-round the swimming is seasonal, so you won't be able to make this one a New Year's Day adventure.
