The weather forecast suggests clouds and a small chance of showers, but it’ll be a warm 5 degrees for the 2025 edition of the Hornby Island Polar Bear Swim on New Years Day. HIFR will be at Grassy Point beach with trucks, hot dogs, chai and a big bonfire in anticipation of the swimmers hitting the water at noon sharp.
This is a great family event with everyone from 6 years old to those in their 80s swimming or just watching the spectacle.
Pro tips:
1) Bring a mug for the hot chai to avoid a single-use cup.
2) Wear water shoes because the pebbles can be hard on your feet.
Is the polar bear swim at noon or 11 am?
We hit the water at noon. Get there a little early to make sure you can be a part of the spectacle.