If a frosty cold swim is part of your tradition to kick off the new year, you can check out one of the many events scheduled in the Austin area this Jan. 1st. Embrace your inner polar bear for a jump into 2022!

— Barton Springs Pool Polar Bear Plunge
You may recall that the 2021 Barton Springs plunge was cancelled due to COVID, and we’re keeping close eye on the any news from Austin Parks and Recreation Department about this year’s status, but as of now, Barton Springs Pool plans to be open free of charge on New Year’s Day for any who wish to jump into the chilly waters. For more information on the Barton Springs Pool & schedule, click here.

— Polar Bear Plunge in Leander at Robin Bledsoe Pool
Take part in a Leander tradition and make a splash on Saturday, January 1 at the Robin Bledsoe Pool. Gates open at 1:30 p.m. with a plunge at 2 p.m. Pre-registration for this event is recommended and admission is free for spectators. Registration is $10 and includes membership in the “Polar Bear Club” along with a Polar Bear Plunge shirt and a ticket for door prizes. More details & reservations.

Photo from the City of Leander’s Parks & Rec Dept.

— Polar Bear Plunge & 5K in in Wimberley
Celebrate the New Year on January 1, 2022 at the  with Blue Hole Regional Park’s 5th annual Polar Bear Plunge & 5K! This action packed event is fun for the whole family! Tickets are $25 per person which covers your admission to the 5K and a swag bag. If you are just plunging, you do not need a ticket. There will also be a firepit, hot drinks, and music! More details & reservations.

— Pfreeze Pflop in Pflugerville at Scott Mentzer Pool
The event will run from 9-10 a.m. at the Scott Mentzer Pool (901 Old Austin Hutto Rd.) You must be in line by 10 a.m. to slide. Admission is free with donation of a canned food item given to benefit local food banks. A limited number of attendees will also get a free tshirt! More info.

— Polar Bear SPLASH in Kyle at James Adkins Pool
Splash into 2022 at the 18th Annual Polar Bear Splash sponsored by the Kyle Parks & Rec Dept. Gates open at 10 a.m., and the splash takes places at 10:30 a.m. Advance registration is $20 and on-site, day-of registration is $25. Spectators may enter for free. Registration includes participation, Polar Bear swag & hot chocolate. More details and registration.

Have fun out there jumping into the new year!