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Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville: Celebrate 40th Anniversary - 2025

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As the clock strikes midnight on New Yearā€™s Eve, many people around the world are busy making resolutions and celebrating with friends and family. However, in Oakville, Ontario, a unique tradition takes place on January 1st that combines courage, community spirit, and philanthropy: the Courage Polar Bear Dip. This year, the event marks its 40th anniversary, making it a significant milestone for participants and supporters alike.


Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville - 2025


Polar bear plunge

A Brief Overview


The Courage Polar Bear Dip is an annual event where hundreds of brave individuals plunge into the icy waters of Lake Ontario at Coronation Park. Participants come together not only to embrace the thrill of the dip but also to support a noble causeā€”raising funds for clean water initiatives through World Vision Canada. Since its inception in 1986, the event has grown from a small dare among friends to Canadaā€™s largest Polar Bear Dip for charity, raising nearly $2.5 million to date for water projects in developing countries.


The Spirit of the Dip


Every year, participants dress in a variety of costumes, from whimsical to outrageous, showcasing their creativity and enthusiasm. The event is not just about taking a plunge; itā€™s a celebration of community, courage, and compassion. Many participants jump into the frigid waters to support loved ones, while others seek to challenge themselves and start the New Year with a memorable experience. The atmosphere is filled with excitement, laughter, and camaraderie as spectators cheer on the dippers.



Supporting a Worthy Cause


The funds raised during the Courage Polar Bear Dip directly support World Visionā€™s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. These initiatives aim to provide clean, safe water to communities in need, significantly improving health and quality of life. For instance, funds will help rehabilitate critical water infrastructure in Menkao, DRC, ensuring that over 12,000 people have access to fresh, potable water daily.


As we approach January 1, 2025, the Courage Polar Bear Dip promises to be an unforgettable event, celebrating not only the thrill of the dip but also the impact of community efforts in providing clean water to those who need it most.


The History of the Courage Polar Bear Dip


The Courage Polar Bear Dip has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1986. What began as a playful challenge has transformed into a beloved community event that attracts participants from all walks of life.


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Origins of the Event


  • The Challenge: The dip was inspired by Gaye Courage, affectionately known as "Mama Bear," who dared her sons, Todd and Trent, to jump into Lake Ontario to wake themselves up on New Yearā€™s Day. This simple dare quickly evolved into a larger gathering as friends joined in the fun.

  • Growth Over the Years: The following year, more friends participated, and the event began to gain traction. By 1995, the Courage brothers recognized the potential for fundraising and partnered with World Vision Canada, marking a significant turning point in the dip's history.


Milestones and Achievements


  • Partnership with World Vision: Since teaming up with World Vision, the Courage Polar Bear Dip has raised nearly $2.5 million for clean water initiatives worldwide. This partnership has allowed the event to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals in developing countries.

  • Community Engagement: The dip has become a staple of the Oakville community, with participants ranging from young children to seniors. The event fosters a sense of togetherness, as families and friends come together to support a common cause.



Anecdotes from Past Events


Participants often share heartwarming stories about their experiences at the dip. Many describe the exhilarating rush of jumping into the icy waters, the camaraderie felt among fellow dippers, and the joy of contributing to a meaningful cause. For some, the dip has become a cherished New Yearā€™s tradition, while others participate to honor loved ones or to challenge themselves in a fun and unique way.


As the Courage Polar Bear Dip approaches its 40th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact of collective efforts in making a difference. The event not only celebrates the bravery of its participants but also highlights the importance of providing clean water to those in need.


Event Details for 2025


As we look forward to the 2025 Courage Polar Bear Dip, here are the essential details for participants and spectators:


  • Date and Location: January 1, 2025, at Coronation Park, Oakville.

  • Schedule of Events:

    • 12:30 PM: Registration opens, live music, and festivities begin.

    • 1:15 PM: Costume contest with prizes for the best costumes.

    • 2:00 PM: The dip into Lake Ontario.

    • Post-Dip Party: Celebrate at Tin Cup Oakville with food and drinks, where a portion of sales will support the dip.


Participants are encouraged to register online or in person, with a registration fee of $30. This fee contributes to the fundraising efforts for World Visionā€™s clean water projects. The Courage Polar Bear Dip is not just an event; itā€™s a celebration of community, courage, and compassion. As we prepare for this milestone anniversary, we invite everyone to join in the fun and make a difference in the lives of those in need.


Polar bear plunge

Participation and Fundraising


Participating in the Courage Polar Bear Dip is not only an exhilarating experience but also a meaningful way to contribute to a vital cause. Hereā€™s how you can get involved and make a difference:


How to Participate


  1. Register for the Dip:

    • Online Registration: Participants can register as individuals or teams through the official website.

    • Paper Registration: Alternatively, you can fill out a paper registration form and bring it to the park on the day of the event along with the $30 registration fee.

  2. Fundraising:

    • Participants are encouraged to raise funds to support World Visionā€™s clean water projects in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    • Sponsorship: Ask friends, family, and colleagues to sponsor your dip. Every $100 raised earns you an entry into a prize draw, and the top fundraiser will also receive a special prize.

  3. Spread the Word:

    • Use social media to promote your participation and encourage others to join. Tag the event on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter using the hashtags #PolarBearDip and @PolarBearDip.


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What to Expect on the Day


The Courage Polar Bear Dip is more than just a plunge into icy waters; itā€™s a festive community event filled with excitement and activities:


  • Atmosphere: Expect a lively environment with live music, food vendors, and a sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators.

  • Costume Contest: Participants are encouraged to dress up, and there will be prizes for the best individual and group costumes. This adds an element of fun and creativity to the event.

  • Facilities: On-site amenities include heated change tents, washrooms, and food options from local vendors. Itā€™s advisable to bring cash for food and drinks, as well as for the BBQ provided by Tin Cup Oakville.



Community Involvement


The Courage Polar Bear Dip thrives on community support. Local businesses and sponsors play a crucial role in making the event successful. Many businesses contribute through sponsorships, donations, and volunteering, showcasing the strong community spirit that defines Oakville.


By participating in the Courage Polar Bear Dip, youā€™re not only taking a brave plunge into the cold waters but also joining a movement that has a lasting impact on communities in need. Together, we can make the 40th anniversary of this iconic event the most impactful yet.


The Costume Contest


One of the highlights of the Courage Polar Bear Dip is the costume contest, which adds an extra layer of fun to the event. Participants are encouraged to showcase their creativity by dressing up in costumes ranging from silly to spectacular.


  • Categories: Prizes are awarded for the best individual costume, best group costume, and best youth costume, encouraging participants of all ages to get involved.

  • Past Costumes: Over the years, participants have donned a wide array of costumes, from superheroes to whimsical animals, making the event visually entertaining and engaging for spectators.


The costume contest not only enhances the festive atmosphere but also fosters a sense of community and friendly competition among participants. Itā€™s a chance to express creativity while supporting a worthy cause.


Community Impact


The Courage Polar Bear Dip has a profound impact on both the local community and those in need around the world. Since its inception, the event has raised significant funds that directly support clean water initiatives through World Vision Canada.


  • Funds Raised: The Courage Polar Bear Dip has raised nearly $2.5 million since partnering with World Vision in 1995. These funds have been instrumental in financing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.

  • Transformational Projects: The funds raised help rehabilitate critical water infrastructure, ensuring that communities have access to clean and safe drinking water. This not only improves health outcomes but also enhances educational opportunities for children who would otherwise spend hours fetching water.


The event fosters a strong sense of community spirit, as participants come together to support a common goal. Families, friends, and local businesses unite to make a difference, demonstrating the power of collective action.


As we approach the 40th anniversary of the Courage Polar Bear Dip, itā€™s essential to recognize the lasting impact this event has had on countless lives. By participating, youā€™re not just taking a plunge; youā€™re contributing to a legacy of hope and change.


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Fast Facts about the Courage Polar Bear Plunge


  • Event Date: The Courage Polar Bear Dip takes place annually on January 1st. The next event will be on January 1, 2025, marking the 40th anniversary of the dip.

  • Location: The event is held at Coronation Park in Oakville, Ontario.

  • Purpose: The dip raises funds for clean water initiatives through World Vision Canada, supporting projects in developing countries.

  • Funds Raised: Since its inception in 1995, the Courage Polar Bear Dip has raised over $2.3 million for World Vision, contributing to clean water projects.

  • History: The event began in 1986 when Gaye Courage challenged her sons, Todd and Trent, to jump into the lake. It has since grown into a large community event.

  • Participation: Hundreds of participants jump into the icy waters of Lake Ontario each year, often dressed in creative costumes.

  • Costume Contest: There is a costume contest during the event, with prizes awarded for the best individual and group costumes.

  • Schedule: The event includes registration, live music, a costume contest, and the dip itself, followed by a post-dip party.

  • Community Involvement: The dip fosters community spirit, with local businesses and sponsors supporting the event through donations and volunteer work.

  • Impact: Funds raised help improve water access and sanitation in communities, significantly enhancing health and educational opportunities for children.

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The Courage Polar Bear Dip is more than just a New Yearā€™s tradition; itā€™s a celebration of courage, community, and compassion. As we prepare for the 2025 event, we invite everyone to join in the fun, whether by taking the plunge, cheering on participants, or supporting the cause through donations and sponsorships. Together, we can make a significant impact and continue the legacy of providing clean water to those in need.


Join us on January 1, 2025, at Coronation Park in Oakville for a day filled with excitement, laughter, and the spirit of giving. Letā€™s make this 40th anniversary the most memorable and impactful Courage Polar Bear Dip yet!


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