Plunge into 2026 at the Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day at Des Moines Beach Park

The annual Polar Bear Plunge will return to Des Moines Beach Park on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, inviting community members to kick off the new year with a chilly dip in Puget Sound, local event organizers say.

The free event, hosted by Destination Des Moines, is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Beach Park Event Center (map below), where participants will bravely wade into cold waters to “cleanse” themselves and mark the start of 2026.

Organizers encourage all ages and experience levels to take part, whether plunging fully, wading in shoulder deep, or simply cheering on friends and neighbors.

Polar bear plunges have become a popular community tradition across south King County, drawing participants from surrounding areas for a festive and invigorating start to January.

In fact, the truly brave might be able to attend all of the trifecta of plunges in our area on Jan. 1, including:

• 11 a.m.: Normandy Park Community Club to host third annual Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day
• Noon: Start the New Year with a cold splash at Three Tree Point’s annual Polar Bear Plunge

NOTE: If you happen to do the trifecta of plunges, please let us know – send a photo from each one along with your experience(s) to scott@southkingmedia.com and we’ll consider posting!

Organizers say that all plunges will take place rain or shine, and participants are urged to bring warm towels and dry clothing for after the swim.

Video

Here’s a video of the 2023 plunge in Des Moines: