Add Row

Add Element

update

Vancouver Today by SunClub

Local News - Local Rewards - Live Vancouver

update

Add Element

Home
Categories
- Vancouver
- Newsletter
- Community
- Engagement
- Rewards
- Updates
- Lifestyle
- Events
- Connection
- SunClub

January 03.2026

2 Minutes Read

Discover the Thrill of the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim Tradition

Vancouver Polar Bear Swim participant in cold ocean, holding camera.

Reviving a Century-Old Tradition: The Polar Bear Dip in Vancouver

Every New Year's Day, Vancouver’s English Bay Beach becomes a gathering spot for thrill-seekers and tradition-bearers, as the Polar Bear Swim celebrates its incredible 106th anniversary. This year, CBC reporter Troy Charles was among the brave souls who took the plunge into the icy waters, a practice that began over a century ago.

A Chapter from Vancouver's History

The Polar Bear Swim, first organized in 1920 by Greek immigrant Peter Pantages, aimed to foster community connections among newcomers. Today, the event has grown dramatically with over 11,000 participants, showcasing a vibrant mix of costumes and camaraderie. Lisa Pantages, Peter's granddaughter, remarked, "Seeing so many people creating new traditions would make my grandfather proud."

A Community Celebration with a Purpose

But the Polar Bear Swim isn't just about the literal dive into chilly waters. It symbolizes resilience and joy, as well as the power of community bonding during the coldest season. Each year, the event takes on a family-friendly atmosphere, with warming tents, safety precautions, and commemorative buttons for all swimmers. There’s a thrill in both the collective anticipation and the sense of accomplishment that comes with braving the cold waters as a team.

Health Benefits and Experiences

Participating in such cold-water swims can offer health benefits, including improved circulation and stress relief. Experts believe that these brisk dippings can enhance mental clarity, making it a unique way to transition into the new year full of energy and optimism. Participants have reported the experience as invigorating, a mix of adrenaline and euphoria that binds them as they share the moment together.

Planning for the Next Event

For those inspired by this year’s participation, it's not too early to plan for next year's event. The Polar Bear Swim Club encourages interested swimmers to register in advance and prepare suitably. The event promises to continue its legacy, bringing new faces to its shores every January 1st. So, are you ready to bear the plunge?

Join the ranks of this beloved tradition and partake in the revitalizing experience at the next Polar Bear Swim. Don’t miss out on a chance to bond with the community while doing something exhilarating!

Newsletter

0 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

01.04.2026

Mixed Reactions in Vancouver After U.S. Captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro

Update British Columbians Respond to the NewsIn British Columbia, a diverse region with a substantial Venezuelan community, reactions to the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro are shaping the conversation. For many Venezuelan Canadians, this move represents a pivotal moment that might pave the way for political and economic reconstruction in a country devastated by years of mismanagement and turmoil.Meriely Arias, a member of the Venezuelan Canadian Society of B.C., articulated a blend of cautious optimism and anxiety. "We’re happy that Maduro will face justice, but there’s concern about what comes next," she shared, reflecting the ambivalence felt by many. As the news broke, members of her community were seen rallying against the military action, calling for respect for Venezuela's sovereignty.The Global Perspective on U.S. ActionsThe reaction in Canada echoes sentiments seen worldwide. Reports from Latin America and Europe illustrate a broad spectrum of responses, with leaders from various nations condemning the U.S. strike as an infringement on international law. While South American nations like Colombia and Brazil are vocal in their criticism, the United Nations has also expressed alarm, cautioning against setting a dangerous military precedent. This has intensified discussions about U.S. foreign policy and its implications on regional stability.What’s Next for Venezuela?Looking ahead, analysts suggest that the U.S.'s interest in Venezuelan oil will complicate any upcoming political developments. According to Adam Pankratz from UBC, the potential resumption of Venezuelan oil production could disrupt Canada’s oil market, reigniting debates over energy sovereignty. Given that Venezuela holds one of the world’s largest oil reserves yet struggles with production due to years of economic hardship, the potential influence of U.S. actions on its oil economy cannot be overstated.Community Impact in VancouverBack in Vancouver, the community continues to grapple with the implications of this event. Activists express their discontent, gathering outside public spaces to voice their opinions and encourage dialogue about Venezuela's sovereignty and democratic rights. This moment serves as a crucial reminder of the deep ties Venezuelans maintain with their heritage, even thousands of miles away.The mixture of cautious hope and fierce protest emphasizes the complex web of emotions tied to the U.S. military’s actions. As the situation develops, the Canadian public and, particularly, its Venezuelan community will be watching carefully, anticipating not just the outcome for Venezuela but also the ramifications for international relations and oil politics.

01.02.2026

Meet the Hammond-Hope Family: Champions of Darts Changing Lives in Canada

Update Unraveling the Passion for Darts in Canada The Hammond-Hope family, spread across British Columbia and Newfoundland, is redefining the perception of darts from a casual pub activity to a competitive sport worthy of serious consideration. Pioneering this charge is 17-year-old Peyton Hammond, who recently clinched the World Darts Federation World Cup Youth Singles title, bringing national attention to the sport's underappreciated potential. The Journey from Casual Play to World Champion Bill Hammond Jr., Peyton's father, initially picked up darts as a joke in the '90s, laughing at the idea of playing competitively. However, as he honed his skills alongside his now-wife, Sandy Hope, their shared passion for darts transformed into a family affair. Today, their children are not just participants but also champions, with Peyton's aspirations of moving to England for more extensive competitive opportunities reflective of a growing sport. More Than Just a Game: Building Family Connections Many view darts merely as a recreational game enjoyed over drinks, but Jayda Hammond, a national champion at 16, debunks this myth. “It's not just a pub sport,” she emphasizes, highlighting how it fosters family togetherness and connections, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, when the family played darts online. Their commitment to supporting one another in this endeavor emphasizes the familial bonds strengthened through the sport. Cultivating a Community Around Darts The Hammond-Hope family is passionately dedicated to growing the sport and encouraging new players to join. They believe anyone can take part, given that it’s accessible—requiring only a dartboard, which can be relatively inexpensive. Despite their efforts, such as reaching out to schools for exhibitions, they face challenges in attracting new players, as misconceptions about darts persist. Nonetheless, they remain undeterred, using social media platforms like Facebook to promote grassroots engagement and share updates about leagues and tournaments. The Future of Darts in Canada As Peyton looks to further his career abroad, the family's mission will continue. Their narrative illustrates how the sport of darts can break boundaries, enhance personal skills like hand-eye coordination and math, and build a vibrant community around shared interests. The future of darts in Canada may hinge on their efforts to expand its appeal and redefine its place in the national sporting landscape.

01.01.2026

Navigating Costs: What British Columbians Will Pay More for in 2026

Update British Columbia Prepares for Price Increases in 2026As we head into 2026, British Columbians must brace themselves for a variety of economic changes that will impact daily living. From soaring grocery prices to rising utility costs, residents will see shifts in their financial landscape related to inflation and trade dynamics. Amidst global trade tensions, particularly with the United States, the cost of living is about to change significantly.Food Prices Expected to SpikeNew data suggests that grocery bills are set to rise in the new year as food inflation hovers between four to six percent. Factors such as an increase in meat prices, notably beef—which could jump by as much as seven percent due to shrinking cattle sizes—are significant contributors to this trend. With food prices already 27 percent higher than five years ago, families in B.C. are expected to spend, on average, around $17,571 on food annually. This predicament has pushed many to food banks, revealing a stark contrast between economic conditions and household budgets.Utility Costs on the RiseBeginning January 1, 2026, FortisBC electricity customers will experience a 3.63 percent hike in rates, translating to an additional $5.35 per month. Natural gas users will face an even steeper rise of approximately eleven percent—an extra $10.95 each month. These increases are attributed to rising electricity purchase costs and essential system upgrades that are aimed at improving efficiency.Housing Market InsightsOn the housing front, the B.C. Ministry of Housing has pegged rent increase caps at 2.3 percent for 2026, a drop from the previous year’s three percent. Despite this, forecasts indicate further declines in home prices, with predictions of a three to five percent drop in property values throughout the Greater Vancouver region. Experts suggest these trends stem from high inventory levels and economic uncertainties, leaving homebuyers feeling hesitant.Transportation Costs IncreaseIn the realm of transportation, transit fares in Metro Vancouver are slated to rise by five percent as part of a plan to ensure fiscal sustainability for TransLink. B.C. Ferries will also implement a fare increase of approximately 3.2 percent. While the move aims to enhance service and operational capabilities, many passengers will feel the pinch as daily commuting costs rise.The Bigger Picture in 2026Overall, although some sectors, such as housing, show signs of recovery, the broader economic landscape remains fraught with complexities like trade barriers and inflation. British Columbians must navigate this intricate economic terrain and anticipate how these changes will influence their day-to-day lives in the coming year.