New Year’s Dips: Brave Dutch Citizens Take the Plunge Despite Harsh Weather
Though many New Year’s dips were canceled due to inclement weather, numerous Dutch citizens braved the freezing temperatures, high winds, and rain to kick off 2025 with a refreshing plunge. The annual tradition, while scaled back in many places, still saw enthusiasts from various regions of the Netherlands take the challenge head-on.
In Friesland, despite the cancellation of several official dips, some daring souls gathered at local bodies of water to mark the occasion. A 16-year-old girl at Jirnsum, after her brief dip, summarized her experience succinctly: "It was cold, but not as bad as expected."
Across the country, similar scenes played out. In Zeewolde, the organizers of the planned New Year’s dip opted to cancel citing safety concerns due to the harsh weather conditions. The popular Scheveningen sea dip was also called off, but a handful of brave souls took an early dive ahead of New Year’s Eve.
Yet, several locations pressed on with their plans. Unofficially, some gathered at Loosdrechtse Plassen, while officially organized dips took place in Emmeloord and Blauwestad. In Emmeloord, 450 participants jumped into the 6-degree waters of recreation center Wellerwaard, while 235 plunged into the Oldambtmeer, thanks to the organizers who ensured everyone’s safety, despite the chilly temperatures and strong winds.
The jovial atmosphere was infectious, with creative costumes like a woman in a bright yellow outfit and a man in a green Kermit the Frog onesie adding to the laughs and cheers. One participant, despite being clad only in a swimsuit, described the experience as "surprisingly warm and very relaxing."
In addition to the thrill of the icy dip, some participants used the event for a good cause. In Nieuw-Lekkerland, about 40 brave souls, including children and adults, raised money for charity by taking the plunge into the Lek River. Their funds will go to support a local family who will spend 2.5 years living and working on a hospital ship in Nicaragua.
