Hundreds are expected to gather at Alki Beach in West Seattle on New Year’s Day for the annual Polar Bear Swim, a frosty tradition to kick off the year with joy and community.

The event will take place at 10 a.m. sharp on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in front of Duke’s Seafood, with participants plunging into the chilly waters of Puget Sound.

Organizers encourage swimmers to arrive early and line up along the beach to ensure a smooth experience.

Last year’s event drew more than 1,000 participants, and similar crowds are anticipated this year.

Swimmers will count down together before sprinting into the water, a moment described as filled with “joy, laughter, and the cheering of a supportive crowd.

Holding hands with someone you love makes going into the water much easier.

Wear good water shoes, bring a large towel and a warm sweater to put on after you get out of the water. And remember, the water will be warmer than the air, making the experience much more pleasant.

“In that brief moment, as you run into the water, you will be surrounded by joy and laughter from the huge crowd,” organizers said. “The entire beach is filled with cheering, abundance and happiness. It’s really quite amazing. And the crowd watching us from the sidewalk will be cheering too, with a touch of envy, for not joining us.”

So, wash away the complexities of 2024, and your fears too. And as you come out of the water, you will bask in the unlimited possibilities that life offers to each of us in the New Year.

Whatever it is that you want in life, go for it. That is what the New Year, and our great country, is telling us. Enjoy life and go for it.

“Everyone has a GREAT time. You will too.”

Make sure that you are in good health if you participate.

  • WHAT: Alki Beach Polar Bear Swim
  • WHEN: New Years Day – Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, 10 a.m. sharp
  • WHERE: In front of Dukes; West Seattle