A: The current record is 2,461 participants (Most, Czech Republic). To break it, we’ll need at least 2,462 brave plungers—and hopefully thousands more to make history!

A: To meet GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ guidelines, participants will enter the water together as a group, go waist-deep, and stay for a full 60 seconds—no quick dashes in and out this year. It’s still thrilling, just done in a way that counts for the record!

A: No. To count for the record, everyone must enter under a steward’s watch. Each steward manages 100 people and ensures all GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ guidelines are followed.

A: Our tradition has always been the Polar Bear Plunge, but GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ recognizes this type of event as a “Polar Bear Dip.” We’re using their terminology so our record attempt counts. It’s the same exhilarating, icy experience you know and love — just with a chance to make history!

A: For the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt, bathing suits are required. Costumes aren’t allowed in the water, but feel free to dress up for fun before or after the plunge!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sacha Sanguinetti
Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce
(360) 371-5004 | sacha@birchbaychamber.com
birchbaychamber.com

Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge Aims for World Record on New Year’s Day

Volunteers Needed Now to Help Make History

Birch Bay, WA — August 28, 2025 — Birch Bay’s biggest tradition is about to get even bigger. On January 1, 2026, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce will attempt a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title during its annual Polar Bear Plunge, and the community is invited to be part of the action.

To pull it off, the Chamber needs 125+ volunteers to handle set up, tear down, registration, merchandise sales, and serve as impartial stewards during the official record attempt.

“Birch Bay’s Polar Bear Plunge has always been about fun and community,” said Sacha Sanguinetti, Event Coordinator for the chamber. “This year, it’s about making history — and we can’t do it without volunteers.”

Sign up to volunteer online at birchbaychamber.com or in person at the Chamber office: 4819 Alderson Rd. #103, Birch Bay.

The Polar Bear Plunge draws myriads of brave swimmers — and thousands of cheering spectators — to the chilly waters of Birch Bay every New Year’s Day. With a world record on the line, 2026 promises to be the most unforgettable plunge yet.

This event is made possible in part by a Tourism Grant from Whatcom County and a Community Support Grant from Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2.

About the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting community spirit, supporting local businesses, and showcasing Birch Bay as a vibrant year-round destination. Through events, advocacy, and partnerships, the Chamber works to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of the Birch Bay area.

About Guinness World Records
Guinness World Records is the global authority on record-breaking achievement. First published in 1955, the Guinness World Records book has become an international phenomenon, with record attempts taking place across the globe in every imaginable category. Achieving a Guinness World Record represents not only a unique accomplishment but also an enduring place in history.

About Whatcom County Tourism Grant Program
Whatcom County’s Tourism Grant program invests lodging tax revenues into events and projects that increase tourism and benefit the local economy. These grants help bring visitors to Whatcom County while supporting community events and organizations.

About Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2)
BBBPRD2 is a special purpose district serving the Blaine and Birch Bay community by developing, operating, and maintaining parks, trails, and recreational programs. The district is committed to enhancing quality of life, encouraging healthy activities, and supporting community-focused events.

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Press Release – For Immediate Release

Birch Bay Aims at GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS(TM) Attempt for Polar Bear Dip

Birch Bay, WA – February 27th, 2025 – The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Blaine Birch Bay Park & Recreation District 2 and Bellingham/Whatcom County Tourism, is thrilled to announce GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS(TM) for the largest Polar Bear Dip. The event will take place on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, on the stunning shoreline of Birch Bay.

The current world record of 2,461 participants was set in Most, Czech Republic on March 1, 2025. Birch Bay’s 43rd Annual Polar Bear Plunge is expected to draw thousands of participants and spectators, with hopes of shattering the record and making history.

“This world record attempt will be an exciting opportunity to showcase the Birch Bay community, our beautiful shoreline, and all that we have to offer to a myriad of visitors, both new and returning,” said Sacha Sanguinetti, Event Coordinator for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. “We expext this event, and the publicity it brings, to be an economic boost for the community for years to come.”

“The Polar Bear Plunge world record attempt is a brilliant way for people all over the world to discover the beauty of Birch Bay and Whatcom County and the rich community spirit that makes our area an incredible place to visit year-round,” said Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism President & CEO Dylan Dean-Boyle.

The Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge has Grown steadily in popularity over its 43-year history. The most recent plunge on January 1, 2025, saw an estimated 1600 participants take the icy dip. This year’s record-breaking attempt promises to be the biggest and best yet, featuring live entertainment and activities for all ages. 

Having the Guinness World Records brand associated with this event brings global recognition and credibility, emphasizing the significance of the attempt and the achievement itself. The organization is synonymous with extraordinary accomplishments, and its endorsement highlights the importance of this moment for Birch Bay, attracting attention from accross the world.

Registration for this attempt is planned to open on a date TBD this summer. Particiapts are encouraged to register early to secure their spot in history. Community members, visitors, and spectators alike are invited to witness and support this historic moment.

Join us on January 1, 2026, as we make history together! 

Media Contact: Sacha Sanguinetti, Event Coordinator

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce

Email: sacha@birchbaychamber.com

Phone: (360) 371-5004