Ready to shake off the old year and jump into the new? To some, there is nothing like an icy cold dip in the ocean to do the trick.
The Delmarva Peninsula is home to a handful of New Year’s Day swims, allowing participants to plunge into 2023 with gusto.
The average sea temperature in December is 51 degrees and drops to 45 degrees in January off the coast of Ocean City.
Don’t forget your towel and a warm change of clothes.
Ocean City: Penguin Swim
In its 29th year, the Penguin Swim is held by Atlantic General Hospital. Individual and team fundraising efforts through the swim help support the not-for-profit hospital. Advance registration and check-in is available online, and in person from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at the Princess Royale. Day-of registration and check in is from 9-11:30 a.m.; anticipate a wait time. A cyber swim is also available online for a $10 fee.
When: Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023 at noon
Where: On the beach near The Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel at 91st Street
Cost: Advanced registration on or before Dec. 30, $25. Registration on Dec. 31-Jan. 1, $30.
Learn more: https://aghpenguinswim.org/
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Assateague Island, Virginia: Polar Pony Plunge
Christmas By the Sea in Chincoteague Island promotes the Polar Pony Plunge, taking place on Assateague Beach. Participants are encouraged to dress in “the zaniest, craziest” costumes. Participants must sign a waiver and release form. Parking is limited so car pooling is encouraged. Advanced and walk-up registrations are accepted; expect a wait if registering the day of.
When: Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, at 1:23 p.m.
Where: On the beach at Assateague Island, Virginia
Cost: Free, registration required
Learn more: http://www.chincoteaguechristmas.com/plunge.html
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Cape Charles — First Day In The Bay
The First Day In The Bay event, with Polar Bear Plunge into the Cheasapeake Bay, is brought to the community by Vacation Homeowners Group of Cape Charles. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Cape Charles Citizens for Central Park. Donations are also welcomed. Breakfast pastries from Cake Charles, hot dogs from Dogs by the Bay and beverages will be available for purchase. Advanced registration is available online. The fun begins at 11 a.m.
When: Jan. 1, 2023, at noon
Where: Madison Avenue Beach, Cape Charles
Cost: Free. Donations welcomed
Learn more: https://firstdayinthebay.com/
Bethany Beach — Leo Brady New Year’s Day Plunge
The 2023 Leo Brady New Year’s Day Plunge is presented by the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce & Bethany Boathouse. The event is named for the founder of the swim and benefits the William O. Murray Scholarship Fund. Registration is required with online advanced registration encouraged. Packet pickup and after party is at the Bethany Boathouse at 39187 Hickman Plaza Road.
When: Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023
Where: Garfield Parkway
Cost: Preregistration until Dec. 27; adults, $25; children $20. Day-of registration is $30. Additional packages include food and after party.
Learn more: https://business.bethany-fenwick.org/events/details/2023-leo-brady-new-year-s-day-plunge-24189
