Ring in the new year at the annual Great Canadian Chill

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Friday, 09 November 2012 16:49

When the new year rolls around in Ottawa, residents and visitors throw on their goofiest costumes, swim trunks and anything else they want before running into the icy and unbelievably refreshing waters of Britannia Bay Beach for the annual Great Canadian Chill. All of the proceeds for this fundraiser go toward helping children combat cancer, and everyone who participates is more than willing to splash their way to the cure. Those who travel to Ontario for this once-a-year event should register for the January 1 festivities now.

What to expect during the Chill
There's a reason why so many people come back, year after year, to participate in the Great Canadian Chill. Along with having the opportunity to help ailing children battle cancer, these participants are eager to experience the thrill of freezing water. Why? Sure, it sounds a bit scary, but feeling the rushing water lap over their bodies - if only for a few seconds - is akin to going skydiving or bungee jumping. It's that exhilarating!

All participants should bring their own warm clothing to wear before and after they take the plunge, as well as a warm towel or blanket to dry themselves off. Event coordinators also recommend bringing sturdy footwear like running shoes and rubber boots. Of course, visitors are more than welcome to bring loved ones to watch as they make the leap.

Get into the spirit with a festive costume
As if the chill itself wasn't enough to get visitors in the spirit, there will also be a costume contest that all of the participants can enter. Groups have been known to don superhero costumes as well as other wintry themed get-ups like Santa Claus, penguins and elves. The best outfits warrant an awesome prize, which winners can collect at the end of the day.

Warm up with hot chocolate
Thankfully, festival volunteers will be ready for everyone who comes out of the water by providing them with hot chocolate, cider and refreshments from participating restaurants. If participants want something that will really warm up their bodies once again, they can stop at the Royal Britannia Pub for some refreshing beer.