Brrrrringing in the New Year!

188
Photo: More than 20 people were at Lion’s Head Beach on January 1st, 2025 to brave the chilly 4 C water at the annual Lion’s Head Polar Bear Dip. Veteran cold water dippers inspired those who were out for the first time – many saying it was not as bad as they thought it would be.

Annual Lion’s Head Polar Bear Dip Attracts Brave Swimmers

By Joanne Rodgers, Bruce Peninsula Press

Many veteran dippers and lots of first timers decided to come out and brave the chilly 4 C water at the Lion’s Head Beach on January 1st for the annual Lion’s Head Polar Bear Dip. 

Organizer Anna Martens, five years ago, encouraged some of her brave friends to join her at the Lion’s Head beach for a New Year’s dip. The following year, she invited the community to come out and join. Each year attracting more and more participants and onlookers, it has now become a popular annual tradition for locals, cottagers and their supporters.

Many of the first timers say it was not as bad as they thought it would be, while others say it was tough to get warm after the event. Some of the regulars are used to cold water swimming and are pleased to join in the community event.

The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Lion’s Head and District Food Bank.