Coney Island Polar Bear New Year's Day Plunge
Participants gather along the shore to take a chilly dip into the Atlantic Ocean, wearing everything from traditional bathing suits to creative costumes. Spectators can cheer on the plungers and enjoy the festive boardwalk atmosphere. Registered participants can check in to receive a commemorative certificate and browse limited-edition event merchandise.
All ages
See more other Christmas activities near Brooklyn
Plan Your Visit
Tickets
There is no fee to participate. A minimum donation of $30 is strongly encouraged, and donations are non-refundable. Participants who raise $50 or more in donations can receive a limited-edition beanie while supplies last. Limited-edition shirts and beanies are available for purchase for $50 near the registration area.
Hours
On-site check-in opens 10:00 AM; plunge opens 11:00 AM; registration closes 1:00 PM; last opportunity to plunge is 1:30 PM; plunge ends 2:00 PM. The event listing gives the time as 11:00AM EST - 1:30PM EST.
Neighborhood
Coney Island
Parking
There is limited street parking on Stillwell Avenue, West 15th, and West 10th Streets. Parking is also available at the Maimonides Park Parking Lot at 1904 Surf Avenue. The page strongly encourages mass transit.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Register online before arriving and bring the confirmation email’s QR code to help keep the registration line moving quickly.
- All participants need a wristband after check-in; on-site registration needs a phone and closes at 1:00 PM; under-18s need a guardian and signed waiver.
- Pack a towel, old shoes, and warm clothes so you can dry off and change after the cold Atlantic dip.
- Use mass transit if possible; street parking is limited, though the Maimonides Park lot is available at 1904 Surf Avenue.
- Rent a locker early because availability is limited, and remove belongings by 2:00 PM; unattended items remain your responsibility.
Special Events & Promotions
- There is no fee to participate; young children are welcome.
- Participants who raise the fundraising minimum receive a limited-edition beanie while supplies last.
- The top five fundraisers as of December 30 can lead the plunge and have official beach photos with the Club President; each may bring up to four friends or family members for early, expedited check-in.
- Registered participants can receive an “I Did It” certificate at check-in, while supplies last.
Links & Contact
Run by The Coney Island Polar Bear Club
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum age to plunge?
There is no minimum age requirement, but participants under 18 must register and have a waiver signed with a parent or guardian present at check-in.
What should I wear to the plunge?
You may wear whatever you like, whether that is a standard bathing suit or a creative costume.
Do I have to register if I am not fundraising or donating?
Yes, all participants must register and check in to sign the event waiver and receive a mandatory wristband.
Are lockers available for personal belongings?
A limited number of lockers are available to rent inside Luna Park near the check-in area on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where can participants change clothes?
Unmonitored changing facilities provided by the NYC Parks Department are available on the Boardwalk at Stillwell Avenue.
Browse Christmas in Brooklyn
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.