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.
Photo: Swimmers enter the cold water at Lion’s Head Beach.Photo L-R: Isla, Lucy and Suzanne take the plunge on January 1st at Lion’s Head Beach. Photo: Organizer Anna Martens with her children Lincoln and Ella. Photo: Ethan and Joanathan after their dip. It was Ethan’s first polar dip, while cottager Jonathan makes it an annual event.Photo L-R: Phil and Yvette. Yvette makes it an annual event.Photo: First-timer Sydney keeps warm prior to the dip.Photo: Ethan, Jonathan and John ready for their dip.Photo: Kari in a hula skirt.Photo: Darci of Summerhouse Park joins the fun event.Photo: Kyle and Frankie come out to support Kara.Photo: Graeme and River. Graeme decided to take the plunge, joining in the fun.