BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — When you think of winter activities, taking a plunge into 60-degree water may not top your to-do list.
Yet still, dozens around Bakersfield say there’s no better way to start the new year than doing just that.
From the north to the south…east to the west, and all over town — on a wintry New Year’s morning, residents took on the title of “plungers” as they dove into 2025.
“I’m here just for fun,” said Lance, a participant of Bakersfield College’s Polar Bear Plunge Fundraiser.
Many of Bakersfield’s bravest took on the challenge.
“Just the adrenaline, and it’s a cool way to start off the year,” said Logan Smith, a longtime participant of the Bakersfield Polar Plunge.
Bakersfield welcomed 2025 with three plunges and BC led the way by kicking off the chilly citywide tradition.
“Numbing,” said participant Zoe Nery. “It’s about as cold as I can describe it.”
Nery added she participated to try, “something new, something fresh.”
“So cold,” participant Lance added while shivering in the ice bath.