Vancouver Polar Bear Swim 2026

Every New Year’s Day, thousands of brave swimmers take the plunge at English Bay for one of Vancouver’s longest-running and most beloved traditions. Whether you dive in, dash through the surf, or cheer from the shoreline, it’s a feel-good celebration of fresh starts, community spirit, and bold West Coast energy. Bundle up, bring your courage, and kick off the year the Vancouver way.

To keep the vibe high, the event also features live music, entertainment, food trucks, and more — making it just as fun for spectators as it is for the brave souls hitting the water.

• Where: English Bay Beach
• When: January 1st, 11:30am to 4pm (Program begins at 2pm and the official swim at 2:30pm.)