New Year's plunge 2027

12:00: Start of on-site registration
12:00: Opening of participant zone and changing area
14:40: Group warm-up with music
15:00: The signal, mass plunge into the sea!

Begin januari

The annual New Year’s Dive in Ostend is the invigorating tradition where thousands of enthusiastic “polar bears” kick off the new year with a plunge into the North Sea.

What can you expect from the New Year’s Dive in Ostend?

Every year in early January, thousands of brave participants gather on the beach near De Drie Gapers to give the new year a truly refreshing start. The exact date for 2027 will be announced on the Visit Oostende website.

An icy but heart-warming tradition: The New Year’s Dive began in 1987 when a polar bear club from Deinze requested an exemption from the winter swimming ban. What started with a small group of daredevils grew into a national event with over 6,000 participants each year.
Festive atmosphere: Warm up in a lively setting filled with upbeat music, costumed swimmers and enthusiastic spectators cheering from the beach.
Colourful costumes and team spirit: Many participants dive in dressed up, from carnival wigs to superhero capes, the crazier, the better! It’s a joyful spectacle where humour and courage take centre stage.
New Year’s resolutions with a splash: This dive is the perfect symbol of a fresh start. You don’t need to be an experienced swimmer, just bring plenty of courage and a sense of adventure.
Family-friendly event: Even if you prefer to stay dry, there’s plenty to enjoy from the sidelines. The New Year’s Dive is a unique experience for young and old alike!