Illustration of a polar bear plunging into water

Polar Bear Swim – January 1, 2023

Come and celebrate the new year at English Bay for the 103rd Vancouver Polar Bear Swim.

Get your swim gear ready for a frosty plunge.

What's happeningRegistration

Registration is now open, and participants should register in advance to receive their participation certificate.

Register now


Order your 2023 Polar Bear Swim commemorative merchandise

Commemorative merchandise, such as hoodies, toques, and t-shirts are available for purchase online with a limited amount available for purchase on site at English Bay. 

Order merchandise

How to participate in the swim

  1. On January 1, 2023, join your fellow polar bears at English Bay for the annual cold dip and receive a button.
  2. Share your video and photo online with #VanPolarBearSwim
  3. Register to receive a commemorative certificate

Contact us

polarbearswim@vancouver.ca​​​​​​​

Did we beat a record?

Polar bear swim statistics

Find out the number of swimmers and water temperature each year since 1976.