Thousands Gather in Birch Bay for Record-Breaking Polar Bear Dip Attempt

On January 1, 2026, thousands of participants converged on Birch Bay, Washington, to take part in an ambitious attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest polar bear dip. This event, a New Year’s Day tradition for 43 years, aimed to surpass the previous record of 3,134 participants set by a group in Sola, Norway. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce had announced the record attempt in February 2025, generating excitement and anticipation within the community.

Bellingham HeraldThousands flood Birch Bay in attempt to break world record for largest polar bear dip

Participants began arriving at Birch Bay around 11:00 a.m., bundled in towels and robes, as they prepared for the chilly plunge. By 12:30 p.m., the beach was filled with individuals ranging from toddlers to seniors, all eager to make history. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, as many participants expressed their motivations for joining the event. “My life goal since I was a kid was to have a Guinness World Record, so hopefully we get this,” said Pidge Pasquale, 26, from Kingston, Kitsap County. Others, like Amanda Sova, emphasized the importance of community spirit, stating, “I wanted to help put Birch Bay on the map.”

Bellingham Herald

According to Pacific Multisports, 6,213 individuals registered for the event, with 4,917 participants officially counted as they entered the water. To meet Guinness World Records guidelines, participants were required to wear swimsuits, enter the water waist-deep, and remain submerged for 60 seconds. However, challenges arose during the counting process, as some participants entered the water without being officially scanned. Brittany Dunn, a Guinness World Record adjudicator, noted, “Eventually we’ll have a number, but it won’t be totally accurate for the number of bibs that were given out because not everyone got successfully scanned.”

Bellingham Herald

The event not only aimed to break a world record but also served as a celebration of community and tradition. Many participants highlighted the significance of coming together to welcome the new year. “Community is important. We have to do things, and we get to do things, as a community together,” said Guy Occhiogrosso. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce emphasized the global recognition associated with the Guinness World Records brand, stating that it highlights the importance of the event for Birch Bay.

Bellingham Herald

While the number of registered participants exceeded previous records, the official count remains uncertain due to the scanning issues. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is currently working to provide additional documentation to Guinness World Records for verification.

Bellingham Herald

• “It’s time to show Norway how Birch Bay does winter — with heart, hype and a whole lot of community spirit,” — Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce

Thousands flood Birch Bay in attempt to break world record for largest polar bear dip

• “ He said it was like 1,000 knives stabbing you all over your body,” said participant Leslie Smith.” — Leslie Smith, Participant

Bellingham Herald

• “This is the biggest one I’ve ever done,” — Parker Dante, Participant

Thousands flood Birch Bay in attempt to break world record for largest polar bear dip

• “What’s a better way to start off the new year than all together, really cold?” — Guy Occhiogrosso, Participant

Bellingham Herald

As the community awaits confirmation of the record, the event has already succeeded in fostering a sense of unity and celebration among participants.

Bellingham Herald