For many people, the new year feels like a fresh, new start, and what better way to invigorate yourself than with an ice-cold plunge into Lake Ontario with hundreds of others?
On January 1, hundreds of brave souls will venture down to Sunnyside Beach in Toronto and dip into the icy waters in support of a good cause.
The annual New Year’s Day tradition actually extends to many cities around the world, in which participants go for a frigid swim in a nearby body of water to raise money for various charitable organizations.
In Toronto, the Polar Bear Dip started with just three men back in 2005, but has since grown to over 500 people joining in support. Last year, the event raised $90,000 for Boost Child and Youth Advocacy Center which aids child abuse victims.
If you’d like to join in this year’s plunge, head to their website to register.
Make sure to bring proper footwear to wear in the water as it can be rocky, and keep in mind there are no changerooms – so have a towel and change of warm clothes ready.
Not down for the cold but still want to support? Visitors are more than welcome at the beach to cheer the swimmers on, or you can donate online from the comfort of your home.