Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip
Ring in the New Year with a bracing plunge into the Gulf of Mexico at the Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip. This iconic New Year's Day tradition invites thousands to brave the brisk waters, often in creative costumes. Participants who fully submerge are rewarded with a free draft beer and a traditional New Year's lunch, followed by a lively beach party with live music at the legendary Flora-Bama.
What to Expect
New Year's Day plunge into the Gulf of Mexico
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE – Get tickets
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Perdido Key
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
New year's celebrations, unique traditions, beach lovers
Vibe
Festive, adventurous, communal, lively
Energy Level
High
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- Free draft beer and New Year's lunch for participants who fully submerge.
- Live music all day and night following the dip.
- Costume contests and encouragement to wear festive attire.
Location
Event Details
Duration
12 PM start time, with festivities continuing throughout the day
Ages
18+ after 6 PM, family-friendly until 6 PM
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Flora-Bama
Food & Drink
Free New Year's lunch (ham, black-eyed peas, greens, cornbread) for participants, free draft beer for participants, food and drink available for purchase.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early, as people start gathering as early as 9 AM to enjoy the camaraderie before the noon dip.
- Consider wearing a costume to join in the fun and potentially be featured by local news stations covering the event.
- While a full submersion earns a free beer and lunch, a quick dip is also acceptable if the cold water is too daunting.
- Bring your beach bag essentials, chairs, and towels, but remember that no outside alcohol or coolers are allowed.
- The celebration continues all day with live music inside Flora-Bama after the dip, so plan to stay and enjoy the party.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Polar Bear Dip start?
People begin arriving as early as 9 AM to socialize, but the actual dip into the water occurs precisely at NOON on New Year's Day on the beach behind Flora-Bama.
Do I have to fully swim to get the rewards?
No, you don't have to fully swim. While those who fully submerge receive a free draft beer and New Year's lunch, a quick dip is also perfectly fine if the water is too cold.
What is included with the free New Year's lunch?
The traditional New Year's lunch includes ham, black-eyed peas, greens, and cornbread for those who participate in the dip.
What is the pet policy for the event?
Unfortunately, dogs are no longer allowed at Flora-Bama, Flora-Bama Yacht Club, and Flora-Bama Ole River Grill, even for events.
What happens after the Polar Bear Dip?
The event transitions into a large beach party at Flora-Bama, featuring live music throughout the day and night, continuing the New Year's celebration.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.