This year again, Kootenay Co-op Radio is organizing the Nelson Polar Bear Swim at Lakeside Park in Nelson on Monday, January 1st at noon. The event is a fundraiser for KCR and Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society.

Join hundreds of people ringing in the New Year by diving into the cold water of our beloved Kootenay Lake. Too cold for you? Come and encourage the brave plungers! Costume, accessories, fun dressing up highly recommended!

Event Details

  • Sunday, January 1 2023 at Lakeside Park in Nelson at Noon
  • Free
  • Free hot chocolate, coffee and chili for participants
  • Prizes for Best Individual Fundraiser, Best Youth Fundraiser, Best Team Fundraiser and for Best Costume
  • Music by Kootenay Co-op Radio DJ and MC on the beach
  • The funds raised at this event go to support the important community work that Kootenay Co-op Radio and Friends of Kootenay Lake do.

How to participate in 2024?

  • Sign the waiver (Adult or Under 19)
  • Set up fundraising page & fundraise (you don’t need to raise funds to take the plunge but it’s really cool if you do!)
  • Share with Friends and Family via email or on your social media and ask them to support your brave plunge!
  • Take the plunge on January 1st at Lakeside Park in Nelson at noon.

Thanks to our generous sponsors

Ice Sponsors
Ellison’s Market

Snow Sponsors
Kootenay Co-op Grocery Store
Gilbert Parts
Lille and Cohoe
Kootenay Woodstoves
The Pennywise

Water Sponsors
Nelson Olive Oil Co
Midas

Prizes Sponsors
The Sentinel in Kaslo
Relish Restaurant
ShoeBox Cinema (Civic Theatre)
Whitewater Ski Resort
Mallard’s Source For Sports
The Tickle Trunk
Nelson Nordic Ski Club

Sponsors that donated so we can offer you for free: coffee, hot chocolate and chili:
Save-On-Foods
Oso Negro
Viva Cacao