1, in the traditional way — with a chilled splash into the Pacific Ocean. The annual Polar Bear Swim drew hundreds, as usual, for the bracing, rejuvenating dip into the sea at Cabrillo Beach.

Male polar bears can weigh up to 700 kilograms (1,540 pounds) and reach lengths of over three metres (10 feet). This makes them the largest land predators in the world, outmatching even grizzly bears.

Maybe that’s why the Jan. 1 Polar Bear Swim is so popular, drawing thousands each year. It isn’t just about champagne hangovers — it’s about letting the bracing waters of the ocean heal the bruises ...

A few local swimmers and kayakers ventured into or on Dutch Lake in Clearwater to welcome in the New Year on Jan.1.

Tuesday marked a full week the bears have been interacting with one another, Evans said. They were eating, playing, and ...

It was the annual Polar Bear Swim in the waters of Ladysmith Harbour. Those wishing to ring in the new year in a brisk, some ...

Around 50 people took the icy plunge while many more cheered them on from around the Crofton boat launch.