Polar Bear Club Plaque in English Bay
The Polar Bear Club Plaque honors the unique history, cultural spirit, and founder of Vancouver's famous annual winter swimming tradition.
Plaque Inscription
The commemorative marker features the following inscription:
City of Vancouver
Polar Bear Club
When Peter Pantages arrived in Vancouver in 1917 he started the practice of taking a daily ocean swim. In 1920 he founded the Polar Bear Club and inaugurated its now famous New Year's Day swim at English Bay. He served as president until his final dip in 1971.
1876 - 1986
Where is the Polar Bear Club Plaque?
The Polar Bear Club Plaque is mounted directly onto the exterior facade structure of the historic English Bay Bathhouse.
This popular landmark area sits right along the main beach promenade layout at English Bay, making it an easy historic stop to explore right outside the southwestern boundary edge of Stanley Park.