Updated: In 20+ MPH winds on a cold, rainy day, dozens of Ballard residents took the plunge at Golden Gardens. And of course, we shot some video:
Sometimes, one photo says at all.
Officially, the water temperature was 49 degrees, and the wind was blowing at full tilt. And some folks, believe it or not, went back for a second plunge.
But most couldn’t wait to get out of the water and stand by the fire.
It wasn’t the only polar bear plunge in Seattle: our friends at the West Seattle Blog videotaped a similar event at Alki today, and over a thousand people made the plunge into Lake Washington at Magnuson Park.
Earlier: Need a little jolt to kick the year off right? Head on down to Golden Gardens at noon on New Years Day for a polar bear plunge. There will be a bon fire, hot chocolate and costumes are encouraged. Some of the events include “Dive For It” and the “Goin’ Long Football Catch” as well as “Ooops, I Forgot My Bathing Suit.” And after the festivities, participants can down a free drink at the Lock & Keel to warm up (5144 Ballard Ave NW.)
We’ll be there snapping photos, and we’ll post them here on My Ballard.