The Polar Bear Swim is an international New Year's Day tradition where people from around the world symbolically wash away the past year and celebrate the start of a brand new year.

Victoria Sports News is putting on the second annual Polar Bear Swim on January 1st at 11:30 am at Esquimalt Lagoon in Colwood.

This year's event includes a ceremonial send-off with the Songhees First Nation in recognition that we live, learn and celebrate on the land of the Lekwungen people.

And don't miss the ceremonial "First Dive" by a fully uniformed Victoria HarbourCats baseball player. 

Swimmers and spectators are asked to bring a donation to support KidSport Greater Victoria which helps to ensure kids in families of all income levels can enjoy the benefits of team sports. 

There will be draw prizes. First prize goes to the first person fully immersed into the water. 

Join the Polar Bear Swim event on facebook.