Deep Cove Penguin Plunge 2026

Welcome the New Year with one of the North Shore’s longest-running winter traditions. The Deep Cove Penguin Plunge 2026 takes place on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Panorama Park in Deep Cove, bringing together cold-water plungers, families, and spectators for a fun-filled afternoon in support of a vital local cause.

This iconic New Year’s Day event combines a quick ocean plunge, creative costumes, live music, a warming bonfire, and community fundraising — making it a must-attend winter celebration in Metro Vancouver.

Event Overview

• Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026

• Time: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM

  • Costume judging: 1:30 PM

  • Penguin Plunge: 2:00 PM (promptly)

• Location: Panorama Park, Deep Cove

• Admission: Free to participate

• Beneficiary: Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue – Station 2

What to Expect

The Deep Cove Penguin Plunge is known for its friendly, community-focused atmosphere and family-oriented programming.

Event highlights include:

• Free plunge registration with a commemorative Penguin Plunge pin/badge

• Costume prizes, with judging before the plunge

• Food and refreshments available on-site

• A large bonfire to warm up after the plunge

• Live music by Gary Comeau and the Voodoo Al/stars

• A festive crowd of plungers, locals, and visitors

All donations collected during the event go directly toward supporting marine search and rescue services that keep local waters safe.

Registration & Donations

A registration booth will be set up near the tent above the playground at Panorama Park. Volunteers will assist with check-in, waiver signing, and distributing plunge pins.

Participants and spectators can also:

• Make donations on-site in support of RCMSAR

• Purchase limited-edition Penguin Plunge T-shirts as a keepsake from the event

For waivers, official updates, and additional event information, visit the Penguin Plunge official website.

Event History

The Deep Cove Penguin Plunge began in 1983, founded by local resident Merv Ovesen as a safer alternative to longer winter swims. The idea was simple: plunge in, plunge out, and do it at a more “civilized” time — 2:00 PM.

What started with just four participants and one dog has grown into a cherished tradition with over 40 years of history, drawing hundreds of plungers and spectators each New Year’s Day. Since 2010, the event has been proudly hosted by Deep Cove Kayak and Coast Outdoors, ensuring the tradition continues for future generations.

Why Attend the Deep Cove Penguin Plunge

This New Year’s Day tradition is ideal for:

• Starting the year with a bold and memorable challenge

• Enjoying winter festivities by the water

• Supporting local marine search and rescue teams

• Experiencing one of the North Shore’s most unique community events

Whether you’re plunging into the cold or cheering from the shore, the Deep Cove Penguin Plunge offers a refreshing and meaningful start to 2026.

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