Annual New Year's Dip Establishes Year's Mood
Nearly a Hundred Attend New Year's Eve Swim in Reykjavik's Nauthólsvík
Yesterday marked the highly-anticipated New Year's Eve swim in Nauthólsvík, Reykjavik, Iceland, with over a hundred participants braving the chilly waters.
Herdís Anna Þorvaldsdóttir, chairperson of the Reykjavik Sea Swimming Association (SJÓR), expressed her delight at the resumption of the tradition, which had been on hiatus since 2020 due to the pandemic.
"It was incredibly joyful to be able to gather at the sea once again on New Year's Day," Þorvaldsdóttir said. She noted that the event is unique due to the customary wearing of fancy attire to celebrate the new year.
This year's swim took place under unusually cold conditions, with -2.2°C recorded yesterday—a temperature that had been previously equaled in the same year. The thickness of the ice covering the water was also atypical, giving the swim a distinct and beautiful quality.
Despite the extreme cold, Þorvaldsdóttir emphasized the importance of cautious participation. She herself donned a sequined gown for the occasion, joining many others who showed up in their most festive attire, with some groups even coordinating thematic outfits.
"Sea swimming is an invigorating way to kick off the new year," Þorvaldsdóttir added. "Conquering the natural elements at the start of the year instills a sense of accomplishment that carries throughout the year, making other challenges seem less daunting."
The gathering marked the conclusion of another successful New Year's Day swim at Nauthólsvík, a tradition that continues to draw locals and tourists alike.
[Based on information from mbl.is/Arnþór]
The New Year's Eve swim in Nauthólsvík was not just a celebration of the start of a new year, but also a testament to the community's love for outdoor-living and their resilience against the harsh Icelandic weather. The event, marked by participants braving the cold waters, stirred a sense of lifestyle that blends seamlessly with nature. With the recent news of its successful resumption after a two-year hiatus, home-and-garden enthusiasts might find inspiration in the traditional custom of wearing fancy attire, turning an ordinary swim into a unique and beautiful experience.
