Location Update for 2024 Polar Bear Plunge!
The city's Polar Bear Plunge will occur at Henry Moses Aquatic Center (HMAC) at 10 a.m. on New Year's Day. The location changed from Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park to HMAC due to potentially toxic algae blooms in Lake Washington.
There is still time to sign up to take the plunge! Register online at rentonwa.gov/register using the keyword 'Plunge'.
It’s icy, frosty and just plain cold: it’s Renton’s Polar Bear Plunge. This annual New Year’s Day tradition at Gene Coulon Park will start your 2024 with a jolt!
Renton’s Polar Bear Plunge is at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 1, 2024. It’s free to participate, but you need to pre-register.
The goal is simple: make a run into the chilly waters of Lake Washington – and run back out as fast as you can. Expect the water to be about 45- to 47-degrees. Sometimes, it feels colder because of the wind. The crowd will cheer you on as you immerse yourself in Lake Washington – or just dip your toes. Either way, it’s a fun-filled morning that’s guaranteed to wake you up.
Renton hosted its first Polar Bear Plunge in 2008. Ever since, residents and visitors alike have made it a tradition to take a dip in Lake Washington on New Year’s Day.
Here’s all you need to know about the Polar Bear Plunge 🐻❄️❄️
- Registration is FREE.
- You must register to participate.
- Pre-registered participants get coffee, hot cocoa, and chowder after taking the plunge!
Meet at the South Beach of Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park.- Bring your towel and dry clothes to warm up after.
- U.S. Coast Guard approved flotation devices are permitted for those with limited water/swimming experience.
A special thank you to the Renton Fire Authority, Ivar's, and Starbucks for supporting this event.
Take the plunge and register here!
Fun Fact: The first Polar Bear Plunge took place in Boston in 1904 in some mighty chilly waters.
Photo credit: City of Renton
