New Year's Dip Sets Trend for the Coming Year
Celebrating New Year's Eve the Icelandic Way
Ring in the new year with a splash! More than a hundred brave souls plunged into the icy waters of Nauthólsvík yesterday for the annual New Year's Eve swim. Arnþór
Herdís Anna Þorvaldsdóttir, the chairperson of the Reykjavík Sea Swimming Association (SJÓR), expressed her joy at finally being able to host the event after a two-year absence due to the pandemic. "It was amazing to finally be able to go to the sea together on New Year's Day again," said Þorvaldsdóttir.
The New Year's Day swim is unlike any other swim of the year. Participants don their fanciest attire to celebrate the new year, making for an exciting spectacle. Arnþór
Icy Conditions
This year, the participants had to contend with record-breaking cold temperatures and unusually thick ice. Þorvaldsdóttir explained, "The ice covering the water was very thick, making it a unique and beautiful sight. Despite the cold, it did not deter anyone from taking the plunge. Safety precautions were emphasized to ensure everyone's well-being."
A Sequined Dip
Þorvaldsdóttiropted for a shimmering sequined gown for the occasion, joining others who showed up in their most extravagant attire. "The sequins definitely helped keep me warm during my dive," she admitted.
Why Start the Year with a dip?
Þorvaldsdóttir believes that taking a dip on New Year's Day sets the tone for the rest of the year, providing a sense of accomplishment and well-being. "It's such an empowering feeling to challenge nature's laws, and it gives you the courage to face other challenges throughout the year. That's why starting the year with this swim is so special."
Iceland may not be known for its New Year's Day swims, but it certainly offers unique cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes that provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities. If cold-water swimming isn't your thing, why not try horseback riding, hiking, or Relax in one of the many geothermal pools instead? [2][5]
- In 2023, the news reported on the Icelandic tradition of New Year's Eve as more than a hundred people swam in the icy waters of Nauthólsvík.
- The weather conditions were particularly challenging this year, with record-breaking cold temperatures and thick ice, but that didn't stop participants from taking the plunge.
- Nature provided a stunning backdrop for the annual New Year's Day swim, with the ice-covered water creating a unique and beautiful sight.
- Arnþór, the chairperson of the Reykjavík Sea Swimming Association, chose to wear a sequined gown for the swim, joining others in extravagant attire.
- Participants in the New Year's Day swim believe that taking a dip helps set the tone for the rest of the year, providing a sense of accomplishment, well-being, and even courage to face future challenges, making outdoor-living and home-and-garden lifestyle activities like horseback riding, hiking, or relaxing in geothermal pools more appealing.
