Looking for a unique way to kick off the New Year in the Okanagan? A polar bear dip might be just the thing. These chilly dips into the lake happen every January and have become a fun (and slightly wild) tradition in several communities.
Whether you’re jumping in or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a great way to start the year with a splash.
Where to Find a Polar Bear Dip in the Okanagan
These chilly dips take place across the Okanagan Valley, mostly on January 1 (with one on January 2), and they’re a fun way for communities to kick off the New Year. Many are family-friendly — whether you’re jumping in or just there to cheer from the shore.
In our family, my husband and one of our daughters brave the icy water together, while I stick to my role as the towel girl, waiting with dry towels and a hot water bottle. Some kids love the quick plunge, and others (like our younger ones) are happy to watch and laugh from the sidelines. Either way, it’s a memorable way to start the year as a family.
Summerland Kinsmen Club Polar Bear Dip
📍 Sun-Oka Beach, Summerland
A long-running local tradition held at noon on January 1. Hosted by the Summerland Kinsmen Club, this dip draws a fun crowd with costumes, cheering, and warm drinks. This is the one my husband does every year — it’s a great one for spectators and families too.
Kelowna Polar Bear Dip
📍 Tugboat Beach, Waterfront Park, Kelowna
Hosted annually at Tugboat Beach in Waterfront Park, the Kelowna Polar Bear Dip is a New Year’s Day fundraiser supporting Adaptive Adventures and their accessible outdoor recreation programs for people with disabilities. The event often includes food trucks, music, and a high-energy crowd. Tickets are required to participate, and all swimmers must sign a liability waiver in advance or at check-in.
Peachland Polar Bear Swim
📍 Swim Bay, Peachland
The Peachland Polar Bear Swim takes place each year at Swim Bay along the town’s scenic waterfront. Hosted by Peachland Recreation, this free event typically starts with check-in, followed by the dip. A signed waiver is required to participate, and families are welcome to take part or simply cheer from the beach. The local concession, is often open with warm snacks and drinks to enjoy after the plunge.
Osoyoos Desert Dip
📍 Gyro Beach, Osoyoos
The Osoyoos Desert Dip takes place every New Year’s Day at Gyro Park and offers a fun way to kick off the year with a quick (and icy) plunge into the lake. Organized by the Osoyoos Festival Society, the event includes costume prizes, a heated tent, beach bonfire, and hot drinks to help warm up after the dip. It’s a great option for families and spectators, with a lighthearted atmosphere and plenty of community spirit.
Naramata Polar Bear Fire Plunge
📍 Centre Beach, Naramata
The Naramata Polar Bear Fire Plunge is a bold and festive way to start the New Year, held each January 1 at Centre Beach. This community event raises funds for the Naramata Fire Fighters Society and includes fun extras like cozy fire pits, music, complimentary hot drinks and hot dogs, and even the option to warm up in a mobile sauna. Search and Rescue volunteers are on site to keep everyone safe, and participants can earn a keepsake if they’re among the first to register and donate.
Enderby Polar Bear Plunge
📍 Shuswap River, Enderby (Check in at the Visitor Centre)
Held each year on January 2, the Enderby Polar Bear Plunge invites brave participants to jump into the chilly Shuswap River to celebrate the start of the new year. Hosted by Enderby & District Recreation Services, the event is casual and community-driven — check in at the Visitor Centre. Participants are encouraged to bring warm clothes for afterward, along with a donation for the food bank. Hot drinks are served on site, and all swimmers must sign a waiver before taking part.
You May Also Like: 220+ Things to Do witih Kids in the Okanagan this Winter
Make It Your Own Tradition
Whether you’re running into the lake or bundled up with a camera and hot chocolate, polar bear dips are a fun and memorable way to kick off the New Year in the Okanagan Valley.
If you’re thinking about giving it a try, go for it — just remember to bring warm clothes, a towel, and maybe someone to hold them for you! And if you’re like me, standing on the beach with a thermos and cheering from the sidelines is just as much a part of the tradition.
