Take the plunge into the Gulf of Mexico for this uniquely coastal, family-friendly event presented by the Kiwanis Club of Gulf Shores in partnership with The Hangout, The City of Gulf Shores, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run. 

Submitted

It is time to put 2020 behind us and bring in 2021 coastal Alabama style. The 10^th Annual Polar Bear Dip will take place on new year’s day at noon at the Gulf Shores Main Public Beach (at The Hangout: 101 E. Beach Blvd). Take the plunge into the Gulf of Mexico for this uniquely coastal, family-friendly event presented by the Kiwanis Club of Gulf Shores in partnership with The Hangout, The City of Gulf Shores, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run. 

Dress up in a wacky outfit or just show up and be a part of this uniquely coastal event. The party starts at 10 a.m. with beachfront entertainment by DJ Saint Nic. Enjoy a beach bonfire, games, and entertainment and countdown to take the dip at noon. The new year’s day party at the Hangout starts immediately following the dip in the frigid Gulf of Mexico featuring entertainment, free chili and hot chocolate for all who take the plunge, and all the college football games. The event is totally free.

Polar Bear Dip souvenir T-shirts ($15) and koozies ($3) will be available for purchase and donations are encouraged with 100% of the proceeds benefit the Gulf Shores Kiwanis Club and Alabama Special Olympics.

Taylor Means with the Kiwanis Club of Gulf Shores said, “I think I speak for everyone when I say that we have never been more excited to bring in a new year. Let’s wash away 2020 and welcome 2021 with open arms and wet bodies at one of the gulf coast’s most fun annual traditions, the Polar Dip. Our footprint is the public beach and the beach is big and open. There is ample room to distance your party from others. Rain or shine, hot or cold, there is no better way to bring in the new year than by taking a dip in the gulf from our beautiful Alabama beach or just come out and celebrate. The event is totally free with all donations going to local charity.  We invite all of our locals, snowbirds and visitors to come out, enjoy the festivities, wash away 2020, and bring in 2021 Gulf Coast style.”

All Federal, State and local COVID-19 guidelines must me followed. Attendees assume all risk and shall hold organizers harmless. If you feel sick, please stay home. Older adults and persons with underlying health conditions are at increased risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people in high-risk groups consult with their healthcare provider before attending any large gathering.