Ring in the New Year in your swimwear at the 12th Annual Polar Bear Plunge at Matthews Beach, 9300 51st Ave. N.E.
Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Meadowbrook Community Center Advisory Council are co-sponsoring the Jan. 1 event that starts at noon sharp; registration begins at 11 a.m.
From the Parkways post:
A 2014 Official Patch of Courage will be given to all heroic polar bear participants who immerse themselves neck-deep in the lake. The patch will show the world that participants braved the frigid waters. Warming refreshments will be served.
As in previous years, younger polar bears and anyone else who needs a little more room can take part in the Polar Cub Club part of the event immediately preceding the main plunge. For the truly hearty, double-dipping is allowed.
Seattle Parks and Recreation offers a few tips for enjoying a fun, safe swim:
