Provincetown Polar Bear Plunge

New year, fresh start, questionable decisions. Every New Year’s Day, hundreds of brave souls strip down to their swimsuits and charge into the freezing waters of Provincetown Harbor for the annual Polar Bear Plunge. Part of the town’s First Light celebrations, this chilly tradition raises money for the Center for Coastal Studies while giving spectators plenty of reasons to question everyone’s sanity. It’s another reminder that Provincetown knows how to throw a party, even when the temperature suggests staying indoors. Take the plunge, cheer from shore, or simply admire the courage of people willing to get that cold voluntarily. Either way, hot drinks afterward are practically mandatory.