If you’re up for a frosty cold swim to kick off the new year, you can head to Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park beginning at 8:30 am for the annual Polar Bear Splash. Save Our Springs Alliance will host this annual free event and provide complimentary coffee, donuts, and a commemorative t-shirt (while supplies last). Please note: Barton Springs Pool will be open all day but Save Our Springs Alliance will be there from 8:30 am – 2 pm.
If Barton Springs isn’t calling your inner polar bear, take a look at these other nearby options:
— Blue Pool Polar Bear Plunge and 5K @ Blue Hole Regional Park
Monday, Jan. 1 | 9 am – 1 pm | 100 Blue Hole Lane Wimberley, TX 78676
Bring in the New Year with the annual Blue Pool Polar Bear Plunge and 5K. Plunging is free, and ticket prices start at $30 for the 5K, and include a commemorative t-shirt, drink tickets, and a swag bag. This family-friendly event will have a fire pit to warm up after you plunge, food and drink vendors, and live music.
—Pfreeze Pflop@ Scott Mentzer Pool, Pflugerville
Monday, Jan. 1 | 9 am -10 am | 901 Old Austin Hutto Road
Are you brave enough to slide into frigid water to kick off your new year? Admission is free with a donation of a canned food item given to benefit local pfood banks. The pool is not heated and info on what to wear is provided here.
— Polar Bear Plunge Leander @ Robin Bledsoe Park
Monday, Jan. 1 | 10:30 am | 601 S Bagdad Rd, Leander | $10 advanced registration
Do you have what it takes to leap into icy cold January water? Take part in a Leander tradition and make a splash on Monday, January 1, at the Robin Bledsoe Pool. Pre-registration for this event is recommended, and admission is free for spectators. Get more info here.
— 2024 Kyle Polar Bear Splash @ Gregg-Clarke Park
Monday, Jan 1 | 10 am – 11 am | 1100 W. Center St | Register here
Take part in a Kyle tradition and make a splash into the New Year on January 1, 2024! The Polar Bear Splash event takes place at James Adkins Pool, beginning at 10 am. To participate in the Polar Bear Splash, register through Team Sideline. Spectators are encouraged and welcome to attend for free.
Have a fun and Happy New Year!
