Around 300 swimmers typically brave the chilly waters of Departure Bay on Boxing Day, a tradition in Nanaimo for over 60 years. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

brave the chill

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NANAIMO — Following a three year hiatus, a post-Christmas institution in the Harbour City returns.

Registration for the 64th annual Frank Ney Memorial Polar Bear Swim opens at 11 a.m. at the Kin Hut along Departure Bay Beach on Tuesday, Dec. 26 with the icy plunge scheduled for 1 p.m.

NanaimoNewsNOW is scheduled to live stream with event with our own Ian Holmes taking viewers into the water for the experience. Click here to watch the event.

Those attending in person can enjoy hot coffee and snacks provided by the event’s sponsor Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty.

Swimmers will also receive a commemorative bathtub coin and certificate to recognize their efforts.

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The event was cancelled in 2020, 2021 and 2022 as a result of pandemic related health issues and other factors.

Our live stream will begin around 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday and this article will be updated after the swim with reaction from participants.

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