Hardy Canadians Take the Plunge in Icy New Year’s Day Tradition

People participate in the annual polar bear dip on New Year's Day in Oakville, Ont., on Jan. 1, 2025. The Canadian Press/Nick Iwanyshyn

OAKVILLE, Ont.—Strong winds and almost freezing temperatures didn’t deter hundreds of brave souls from jumping into Lake Ontario in a New Year’s Day tradition.

Some 750 people took part in the Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville., Ont., just west of Toronto on Wednesday.