Thousands are seen lighting flares in Birch Bay on New Year’s Eve.
BIRCH BAY — While fog blanketed much of the Puget Sound region, the sky over Birch Bay glowed red. Flames lit the shoreline during the community’s annual Ring of Fire celebration on New Year’s Eve.
Sky lanterns filled the night sky along with fireworks and smoke from the glow of the Ring of Fire.
Thousands of people will gather Thursday as participants attempt to break a world record. The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the Largest Polar Bear Dip. The attempt is being coordinated by the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce along with Pacific Multisports.
The record attempt takes place at Birch Bay Beach Park, with event activities beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Guinness World Records requirements are strict for your attempt to count.
No T-Shirts Allowed During the Plunge
Get your swimsuits on though.
Event organizers confirmed t-shirts are not allowed during the plunge. The clarification came directly from a Guinness World Records representative. Only participants brave enough to face the wind bare chested will have their entry to count toward the world record.
Participants must enter the water together wearing appropriate swimwear only.
Organizers say the clarification came directly from a Guinness World Records representative.
Registration and Check-In Information
Online pre-registration for the event has closed, but in-person registration opens at 8:00 a.m. Use one of three designated check-in locations near the beach.
Plunge Details and Record Attempt
To qualify for the record, Guinness requires participants remain in position for approximately 60 seconds.
Organizers are attempting to surpass the current world record of 2,461 participants, set in Most, Czech Republic, in March 2025.
You do not have to get wet to watch the event unfold, so expect spectators along the shoreline and cheer on participants.
The Birch Bay Polar Bear Dip is a New Year’s Day tradition. Organizers say this year’s record attempt will be the largest in the event’s history.
Event Details
What: GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Attempt — Largest Polar Bear Dip
Where: Birch Bay Beach Park
7930 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine, WA 98230
When: Thursday, January 1, 2026
Official Timeline
8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Registration and Pre-Event Activities
• On-site check-in opens for participants, including same-day registration
• Pick up pre-ordered t-shirts and sweatshirts or purchase additional items while supplies last
• Warming tent with music, light activities, and community engagement
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Final Preparation
• Participants and event stewards assemble on the beach
• Safety briefing and rule review
• Participants must be registered and properly checked in to count
12:00 p.m. SHARP | World Record Dip
• Coordinated plunge into the waters of Birch Bay
• All participants enter together, go waist-deep, and hold position for approximately 60 seconds
• Up to two additional attempts may be directed by staff if necessary
12:15 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Celebration and Awards
• Return to the warming tent for hot cocoa, refreshments, and music
• Certificates awarded to all participants who complete the plunge
• Possible official announcement and brief ceremony if the Guinness World Record is broken
Important Participation Rule:
No t-shirts are allowed during the plunge if participants want their entry to count toward the Guinness World Records attempt.
This is your chance to be a part of one the many iconic traditions in Whatcom County.
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