Historic Polar Bear Dip on January 1st

R. Ken Cooper • December 30, 2023

This is the 40th Polar Bear Dip at the Flora-Bama

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – So a group of people, some still feeling the effects of New Year's Eve, decide it is a good idea to test the water temperature on January 1st, Best of all, many even dress for the occasion in outfits that resemble Mardi Gras, tacos or of course polar bears.

Yes, people from around the world will be celebrating the new year by taking a quick plunge into some colder waters but one of the most famous POLAR BEAR DIP celebrations takes place right here!

The Flora-Bama is celebrating its 40th anniversary of their Polar Bear Dip this January 1st and it is certain to be attended by thousands. Those who submerge will get a free draft beer and a free New Year's lunch of ham, black-eyed peas, greens and cornbread at the Flora-Bama party.

National and local journalists will attend the famous event and ask the same question they have for the past 40 years, "Why?"

The answers are wide-ranging from "washing away the past year" to "waking up me senses for new challenges" and the most common answer of "Why Not?"

The Flora-Bama is famous for many nationally recognized events like the "Mullet Toss" or "Bulls on the Beach", but this has become one of the most recognized Polar Bear Dips in the nation.

Pat McClellan, one of the founders of the Flora-Bama, will be leading the festivities along with owners John McInnis and Cameron Price. McClellan said he was responsible for many of the "crazy" events idea for the famous bar, but that this has always been a favorite for bringing friends and family together. He added that "washing off the old year is a great way to start."

The event takes place on January 1st, on the beach directly in front of the Flora-Bama. The legendary beach bar is famously located on the Florida - Alabama state line. The management pointed out that you can take the plunge, enjoy a meal and drinks, and still be ready to watch the afternoon football games on one of their numerous "large screens" at the Flora-Bama. More information can be found at: https://www.florabama.com/polar-bear-dip

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