Freeze it off at one of these Central Okanagan New Year’s Day polar bear dips

KELOWNA – For some it's madness, but for many people, a frigid dip in icy Lake Okanagan symbolizes a fresh start to the new year.  

At 2 p.m. on New Years Day, Jan. 1, 2018, dozens of brave swimmers will crowd Tugboat Beach in Kelowna for the 2018 Kelowna Polar Bear Swim.

A fundraiser for the Community Recreational Initiatives Society, the Dip began in Kelowna in 2014 and has attracted more entrants each year.

“What better way to start off your new year than to jump in to Okanagan lake?” the event website says. “Come join us for the 2018 Polar Bear Dip hosted by the UBCO JDC West team! Dip by donation and help us raise funds for CRIS Adaptive Adventures!"

Peter Ze German Street Food, BARE TACO and Canoe Coffee Roasters will also be there as well as live music starting at 1 p.m.

Entry is by donation, with all funds going to CRIS, a non-profit dedicated to bringing outdoor activities to disabled people.

“See you there, if you're brave enough that is,” the site says.

Polar Bear dips are also planned for Peachland and Summerland, with registration starting at 12:30 p.m. Jan. 1, 2018.

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