Hundreds of enthusiastic and shivering participants welcomed 2026 with a traditional icy plunge, taking part in the annual Polar Bear Swim at Vancouver's English Bay on Wednesday, January 1st.
A Chilly Start to the New Year
The event, a long-standing Vancouver tradition to ring in the new year, saw a diverse crowd of brave individuals dash into the frigid Pacific waters. Among them was Bill Hamilton, who was photographed multiple times embracing the cold challenge with gusto. The waters of English Bay, typically hovering around a bone-chilling 6 to 8 degrees Celsius in January, provided the ultimate test for swimmers seeking a refreshing and invigorating start to 2026.
Faces in the Crowd: From Locals to International Visitors
The swim attracted a wide array of participants, showcasing the event's broad appeal. Mahshad Jamshiei and Ghazal Azizi were among those documented taking the plunge. A group of friends, including Sue Beckingham, Terry Saik, Tawnya Church, and Troy Beckingham, faced the cold together, demonstrating the communal spirit of the occasion.
The event also drew visitors from afar. The Acuna family from Chile was spotted at the swim, adding an international flair to the local tradition and proving that the call of the icy dip knows no borders.
A Vancouver Tradition of Resilience and Fun
The Polar Bear Swim is more than just a quick dip; it's a celebrated ritual that symbolizes resilience, humour, and a collective sense of adventure as another year begins. The gathered crowd, many in costumes and all in high spirits, created a festive atmosphere on the beach despite the cold weather. The event, captured by photographer Arlen Redekop, highlights a unique aspect of West Coast culture where community and a touch of madness converge on the first day of the year.
While the physical shock of the cold water is fleeting, the memories and the sense of accomplishment for participants like Bill Hamilton and the many others last much longer, solidifying this event as a beloved and anticipated fixture in Vancouver's calendar.
