New date for annual Vernon Polar Bear Swim

VERNON – Keep your pants on — the annual Vernon polar bear swim isn’t happening, officially anyways, until February.

Normally held on New Year’s Day at Kalamalka Beach, this year’s polar bear plunge has instead been scheduled to coincide with the Vernon Winter Carnival.

The date is set for Sunday, Feb. 7, and as in the past, proceeds will go toward the Zimbabwe Project.

“Even if you’re not going to take the dip, come out and make a donation, enjoy the festivities and cheer on your favourite swimmer,” the Vernon Winter Carnival states online.

The popular event consistently attracts a number of participants and onlookers. Check out photos from last year’s event here.

And if you really want to ring in the New Year by turning yourself into a human popsicle, there's nothing stopping you from doing the dip on your own. Just make sure to take the appropriate safety precautions and bring a buddy. 

To contact a reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infonews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.