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

Hundreds to hit the water for return of famous Nanaimo polar bear dip

Dec 26, 2023 | 10:16 AM

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.

Skatepark refresh

Town of Ladysmith seeks public insight in reforming skateboard park

13h ago

stabbing

UPDATE: Two people stab City of Nanaimo employee with needles at Maffeo Sutton Park

15h ago

fly-in

VIDEO: 'It's so special to see these kids:' Santa makes pre-Christmas stop at Nanaimo hospital

16h ago

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.

Local news. Delivered. Free. Subscribe to our daily news wrap and get our top local stories delivered to your email inbox every evening

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW