While many are still belching from the oliebollen and rubbing the hangover from the champagne out of their eyes, hundreds of Groningers with guts prepare for an ice-cold splash. On 1 January, you will see armies of orange hats, blue lips and wide smiles throughout the province. The New Year dive is without a doubt the freshest resolution for the upcoming year.
Haren
Hoornsemeer, Strandpaviljoen Bij De Lijte, 12:00 - The New Year's dive in Haren has some extra sparkle. This is because it is officially recognised by Unox, which means that after your ice-cold adventure, you can take home a cool Unox hat and a certificate. Perfect for giving your trophy cabinet an upgrade. Participation is completely free and parking is hassle-free. Change your clothes in advance, though, as there is no changing room. So hop into your swimming outfit before you come. And the best part? After jumping there will be hot chocolate and speculoos waiting for you. Warm, sweet and well-deserved.
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Bieskemaar
Sportkantine Momentum, Zilvermeer, 13:00 - Run into the Zilvermeer on 1 January right next to the Kardingebult. That's Run & Dip at Bieskemaar. A fresh, sporty start to the year in the green on the outskirts of Groningen. You run 2, 4 or 6 kilometres through the Kardinge area with the city in the background and then dive into the cold water. Running alone or dipping alone is also possible. Around the start and finish, you'll find a convivial mix of athletes and supporters. Everyone comes out of the water with a red head and a broad smile.
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Blauwestad
Strand Zuid, Elfenbank, 13:00 - For the fifth time, swimming association and rescue team GZVW from Winschoten is organising a cool New Year's dive. Previous editions were a great success with more than 200 participants. For just two euros, you can join in on New Year's Day. For that, you also get a hot cup of coffee, tea or chocolate milk and a tasty cup of Unox soup. The orange hat should not be missing, of course. This keeps your head warm and leaves you with a cool souvenir.
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Winsum
Jetty Winsumerdiep, 13:00 - At the start of the new year, you will find yourself in Winsum together with fellow villagers and daredevils at the edge of the Winsumerdiep. Not for long, because after all, there is diving to be done. Participation is completely free and no registration is necessary. So you can always turn up spontaneously, although a big stick is advised. Whether you are a seasoned diver or making your first jump, this dive offers a friendly village atmosphere and drinks to ring in the year.
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Ter Apel
Camping Moekesgat, Heembadweg, 12:00 - In Ter Apel, you can register for the invigorating New Year's dip until the last minute. Every year, a new charity is in the spotlight, to which the proceeds will be donated. A nice extra good intention to start the new year sportily and meaningfully. But don't worry, it's not all cold and exertion. The campsite will open the doors of their Beachhouse for the traditional bowl of snert, spicy mulled wine or another delicacy as a well-deserved reward after your ice-cold splash.
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Delfzijl
Baaisterhoofd, Eemshotel, 11:00 - If you go to the sea near Delfzijl on the first day of January, you are certainly not alone. The traditional dive here is remarkably popular. More than 300 people have already plunged into the Ems at the start of 2025 to usher in the new year. So a grand spectacle will undoubtedly be here again in 2026. The activity is completely non-binding. So no registration or membership fee is necessary - nice for those who still need to gather their courage.
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Veendam
Borgerswoldhoeve, Koetshuis, 14:00 - In Veendam, anyone with a swimming certificate may immerse themselves in a free New Year's dive on 1 January. After the jump, it is great to warm up by a fire pit with a hot drink and an oliebol. A hat from sponsor SKV is provided for every participant, and comfortable changing clothes can be done in the adjacent Koetshuis. According to the Veendammers, the dive is the perfect opportunity to wish each other a happy new year in person. With wet hair and red noses, of course.
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Latest news
Want to keep up to date with all the New Year dives? Then keep an eye on the Unox website. Here you will find a map with all the locations where the diving takes place.
