Polar Bear & Penguin Plunges 2026: The Ultimate New Year’s Day Cold-Water Swim Guide in Metro Vancouver

New Year’s Day in Metro Vancouver isn’t just about brunches and resolutions — it’s about braving icy waters, celebrating community, and starting the year refreshed. From legendary ocean plunges to quirky penguin dips and clothing-optional swims, January 1, 2026 offers a wide range of unforgettable cold-water traditions.

This Vancouver Page's guide brings together all major Polar Bear Swims and Penguin Plunges happening across Metro Vancouver and nearby communities, with direct internal links to each official event page to help you plan your New Year’s Day adventure.

🌊 Vancouver Polar Bear Swim 2026

The largest and most iconic cold-water plunge in Canada, the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim takes place at English Bay Beach and attracts thousands of swimmers and spectators every year.

With over a century of history, this event is a must-experience Vancouver tradition featuring creative costumes, massive crowds, and an unbeatable New Year’s atmosphere.

👉 Event details: Vancouver Polar Bear Swim 2026 at English Bay

🌊 Delta Polar Bear Swim 2026

Set against the wide-open views of Boundary Bay, the Delta Polar Bear Swim is one of the most family-friendly New Year’s Day events in Metro Vancouver.

With a dedicated kids’ plunge zone, costume contests, live music, food trucks, warming tents, and free shuttle service, this event is perfect for all ages.

👉 Event details: Delta Polar Bear Swim 2026 at Centennial Beach

🌊 White Rock Polar Bear Swim 2026

The White Rock Polar Bear Swim is a classic seaside tradition featuring hundreds of swimmers, colourful costumes, and a lively promenade atmosphere near the pier.

Hosted with strong community support and Rotary involvement, it’s one of the most festive polar swims in the region.

👉 Event details: White Rock Polar Bear Swim 2026

🌊 Squamish Polar Bear Swim 2026

Celebrating its 15th annual edition, the Squamish Polar Bear Swim takes place at Sp’akw’us Feather Park along the shores of Howe Sound.

This relaxed, community-driven event welcomes swimmers and spectators alike and goes ahead rain, snow, or arctic outflow, offering one of the most scenic plunges in the region.

👉 Event details: Squamish Polar Bear Swim 2026

🐧 Deep Cove Penguin Plunge 2026

One of the North Shore’s longest-running winter traditions, the Deep Cove Penguin Plunge takes place at Panorama Park in Deep Cove.

Featuring costume prizes, a large bonfire, live music, and fundraising for Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue, this event blends fun with purpose in a truly local setting.

👉 Event details: Deep Cove Penguin Plunge 2026

🐧 Port Moody Penguin Plunge 2026

Held at Rocky Point Park, the Port Moody Penguin Plunge is a heartwarming New Year’s tradition supporting the Crossroads Hospice Society.

With a bonfire, hot drinks, costumes, and a dramatic plunge into Burrard Inlet, this event combines charity, courage, and community spirit.

👉 Event details: Port Moody Penguin Plunge 2026

🧊 Surrey Polar Bare Skinny Dip 2026

For the truly daring, Surrey offers one of the most unique New Year’s Day events in the region. The Surrey Polar Bare Skinny Dip is a clothing-optional plunge at Crescent Rock Beach in Boundary Bay.

Now in its 18th year, this event celebrates body positivity, freedom, and community — complete with a beach bonfire to warm up afterward.

👉 Event details: Surrey Polar Bare Skinny Dip 2026

❄️ How to Choose the Right New Year’s Day Plunge

• Biggest crowd & iconic vibe: Vancouver Polar Bear Swim

• Best for families: Delta Polar Bear Swim

• Classic seaside tradition: White Rock Polar Bear Swim

• Scenic & laid-back: Squamish Polar Bear Swim

• Community + charity focus: Deep Cove & Port Moody Penguin Plunges

• Most daring & unique: Surrey Polar Bare Skinny Dip

No matter which one you choose, each event offers a powerful way to reset, recharge, and welcome 2026.

❄️ Cold-Water Safety Tips

• Avoid participation if you have heart or medical conditions

• Keep water time short

• Avoid alcohol before swimming

• Wear water shoes where surfaces are rocky

• Dry off and warm up immediately after exiting the water

🔗 Discover all upcoming events in Vancouver at Vancouver Page – Discover Local Events.