12/10/2025
๐ Take the Plunge for a Great Cause! โ๏ธ
The Nelson Polar Bear Swim is a fundraiser for Kootenay Co-op Radio (KCR). Each year, a portion of the proceeds supports Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society (FOKLSS).
Join hundreds of brave souls ringing in the New Year with a refreshing dip in our beloved Kootenay Lake! Costumes and fun accessories are highly encouraged!
Not ready to jump in? Come cheer on the plungers!
๐ Register, fundraise, or donate: LINK IN BIO
Event Details
๐
Thursday, January 1, 2026
๐ Lakeside Park, Nelson
11am: Introduction to cold water therapy with Leif from Backcountry Sauna
Noon: Plunge at noon!
๐ฐ Free to attend
โ Free hot chocolate and coffee for participants
๐ The more you raise, the bigger your chance to win fantastic prizes!
Top Individual Fundraiser
1st: One-Day Mobile Sauna Rental - Backcountry Saune
2d: $200 Gift Card - Broken Hill Restaurant in Nelson
3d: $100 Gift Card - Save On Foods
4th KCR T-shirt & FOKLSS swag
Special Prizes:
Best Team Fundraiser: 6-day passes to the Nelson Nordic Ski Club + cozy warming gift basket
Best Youth Fundraiser: $100 Gift Card at Mallard's Source for Sports
Best Costume: $50 Gift Card at the Tickle Trunk in Nelson
๐ถ Music by Kootenay Co-op Radio DJ & MC on the beach
Funds raised support the important community work of Kootenay Co-op Radio and Friends of Kootenay Lake; helping keep our airwaves local and our lake healthy. Every dollar raised makes a difference!
๐ How to Participate
1/ Create your fundraising page and start collecting donations
2/ Share your page with friends and family โ by email or social media
3/ Take the plunge on January 1st at Lakeside Park (or from wherever you are!), and share your splash with your supporters!
More info: www.nelsonpolarbearswim.com
๐ Or stop by Kootenay Co-op Radio, 308A Hall Street, Nelson
๐ Thank You to Our 2025 Generous Sponsors!
โ๏ธ Ice Sponsors
Ellisonโs Market
Nelson & Kootenay Lake Tourism
Kootenay Co-op Grocery Store
โ๏ธ Snow Sponsors
Lillie & Cohoe
Gilbert Parts
Kootenay Woodstoves
๐ง Water Sponsors
Nelson Olive Oil Co.
Midas in Nelson