Get ready to go jump in the lake

The action is frigid and fleeting at two Polar Bear dips planned for New Year’s Day in the Central Okanagan.

More than 1,000 people are expected to gather at Tugboat Bay in Kelowna’s Waterfront Park for the Jan. 1 event. Most dippers run in and out of the 5 C water as quickly as possible, but a few linger and a fewer number actually swim around a bit.

The event is a fundraiser for CRIS Adaptive Adventures, which helps people with disabilities enjoy outdoor activities such as going for mountain hikes and canoe trips. Participants are asked to bring a donation for CRIS.

Activities on site, such as music, the sale of tshirts, and food trucks, begin at 1 p.m. The dip itself takes place at 2 p.m.

The annual Peachland Polar Bear Dip takes place at 1 p.m. at Tugboat Bay on Beach Avenue across from the community centre.

Those planning to enter the waters are asked to register between noon and 12:45.

Many of last year’s 50 participants were dressed in costume to make the occasion doubly memorable. Mayor Cindy Fortin dressed as Supergirl.

For those wanting to try a new event, the Summerland Kinsmen Club presents its 34th annual Polar Bear Dip, at noon on Jan. 1 at Sun-Oka Beach in Trout Creek. There will be warming fires, hot chocolate, hot dogs and dipper teeshirts by donation, prizes for best individual and team costumes and recognition for the oldest and youngest dippers.