Polar bear dip

[ruby_my_dear]

I'm not sure how well known this custom is outside of Canada but it's has a decent following in my home town. Every New Year's Day a few of the town's braver souls gather at the lake, river, any open body of water will do. If necessary, a hole is punched in the ice and on the count of three with much courage enducing ruckus the crowd of costumed crazies make a rush for the water, stay in as long as possible jumping the waves before running back to shore.
I didn't go in but very much enjoyed being a spectator. I promised my PYL that if I achieved one of the big goals I have for this year that I'll go in next Jan 1. I wonder when he'll remember that we plan to spend New Year's in Florida for 2013?

Any polar bears dips in the northern US or is this strictly a crazy Canuck thing?

 

[DarkBee]

People in The Netherlands do a similar thing, minus the costumes and the ice. Most of them wear orange hats though, courtesy of the main sponsor. This is the largest one, and had 10000 participants this year.

 

[DeepGreenEyes]

I love it with baby carrots and potato chips.

 

[Kojote]

Since a ritual called Polartaufe in the german navy (roghly tranlated: polar initiation or something) my relationship with icy water is a little disturbed.
Could be connected to me being more than big-mouthed before the thing and getting a lesson in humility for several hours, though...

 

[midwestyankee]

About 450 people took part in a local Polar Bear Plunge this weekend near Chicago.

I was not among them.

 

[DVS]

I love it with baby carrots and potato chips.

I was thinking the same thing...but thought it might taste a little gamey.

 

[DVS]

About 450 people took part in a local Polar Bear Plunge this weekend near Chicago.

I was not among them.

I'm guessing there were a few cardio units near by?