New Year’s Day Plunge into Atlantic Ocean Held in NYC

The annual Coney Island Polar Bear Club New Year's Day Plunge took place today in Brooklyn, with participants venturing into cold Atlantic Ocean water on the first day of the new year.

The event marked the 123rd year of the plunge, a tradition dating back to 1903. Organizers say it is the largest off-season event held at Coney Island.

Some participants donned atypical swimwear for the occasion, including a Batman costume, a wrestling singlet, and inflatable rat costumes.

The event helps to raise funds for local nonprofits, with participants encouraged to raise at least $30. Organizers say groups benefitting from the fundraising include the Alliance for Coney Island, Coney Island History Project, Coney Island Library, Coney Island USA, and the New York Aquarium.

See video from this year’s plunge here: