GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Confirms Outcome of Birch Bay Polar Bear Dip Attempt
Today, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce received official confirmation from GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ regarding the January 1, 2026 attempt to set the world record for the Largest Polar Bear Dip in Birch Bay. While the event was historic in scale and participation, Guinness has determined that the attempt was unsuccessful.
According to GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™, the determination was based on two primary factors. First, an accurate starting count could not be verified due to non-participants being present within designated plunge zones at the beginning of the attempt. Second, a portion of participants did not fully meet the required guideline of being submerged at least waist-deep for the full duration specified by Guinness.
Despite falling short of the official record, the event achieved its original and most important goal: bringing the Birch Bay community together in celebration while welcoming thousands of new visitors to the bay during the traditionally quiet off-season. On January 1, Birch Bay was filled with energy, community pride, and goodwill as residents, businesses, volunteers, sponsors, and visitors came together for a truly memorable day.
The Birch Bay Polar Bear Dip World Record Attempt was presented by WECU and made possible in part through a Tourism Promotion Grant from Whatcom County and a Community Support Grant from Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Their support, along with that of numerous local partners, volunteers, and first responders, was instrumental in delivering a safe, welcoming, and impactful event.
While the record remains unbroken, the positive economic, tourism, and community impacts of this event will be felt for years to come. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, volunteered, sponsored, and supported this effort.
January 1, 2026 will forever be remembered as an historic day in Birch Bay.
About the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center is dedicated to promoting tourism, supporting local businesses, and enhancing quality of life in Birch Bay, Washington. Through community events, advocacy, and visitor services, the Chamber works to strengthen the local economy while showcasing Birch Bay as a welcoming coastal destination year-round.
About Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism (BWCT) is the official destination marketing organization for Whatcom County. BWCT promotes the region to visitors from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, supporting local communities through responsible tourism development, marketing, and visitor engagement that drives economic vitality.
About Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2
Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 provides recreational programs, facilities, and community spaces that enhance the health, well-being, and quality of life for residents and visitors. The District supports a wide range of community events and initiatives that foster connection, outdoor recreation, and civic pride.
About WECU
WECU is a not-for-profit credit union serving members throughout Washington State. With a commitment to financial empowerment, community investment, and local partnerships, WECU supports initiatives that strengthen the communities it serves and enrich the lives of its members.
About GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™
GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ is the global authority on record-breaking achievements, celebrating extraordinary accomplishments across human endeavor, nature, science, culture, and sport. Through its rigorous verification standards and international reach, GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ inspires people around the world to push boundaries and achieve the extraordinary.
