A cool way to start the New Year

Published 1:30 am Friday, December 27, 2019

Since 2004, the annual tradition of ringing in the new year with an icy dip has become an increasingly popular activity on South Whidbey.

Those participating in the Polar Bear Dive are granted a clean slate with their plunge into the Puget Sound on Jan. 1.

Organizer Jon Gabelein said in an email that the event sees about 130 to 150 people of all ages plunging each year. Twice as many people come for the entertainment value or as the support crew.

“The music, bon fires and hot drinks make it a fun opportunity for community members of all ages to come together for a memorable adventure on day number one,” Gabelein said.

For a $15 fee, participants receive a collectable, official event T-shirt and hot drinks. All proceeds benefit the Island County 4-H Teen Leadership Program. A new addition, this year fresh bagels will be provided by Whidbey Bagel Factory for those who pre-register for the event.

At noon, plungers will take the leap into the waiting waters of Double Bluff Beach. Most people completely submerge themselves, and others will try to beat their personal best beyond their performance in previous years.

Pre-registration for the Polar Bear Dive 2020 is available on the South Whidbey Parks and Recreation website, http://swparks.org/event/polar-bear-dive/. Registration opens on the day of the event at 10:30 a.m.

Sponsors for this year include Island Roofing and Remodel, Useless Bay Animal Clinic, Pickles Deli, Clinton Les Schwab, Whidbey Topsoil, South Whidbey Parks and Rec, Mukilteo Coffee, Whidbey Coffee, Whidbey Island Bagel Factory, Whidbey Weekly, Freeland Cafe, Greenbank Construction and Savage Printing.