BOSTON (WHDH) - A tradition unlike any other took place in South Boston Monday morning as the L Street Brownies jumped into the Boston Harbor as part of their annual polar plunge.
The New Year’s Day event dates back more than a century. This year, some of those participating spoke to 7NEWS, saying they’re happy to keep the tradition alive.
“We’re cold for a few hours,” said one participant. “But, we’ve always done this.”
“Our grandfather did this for a really long time so, we’re just keeping the tradition going,” the same person continued.
The L Street Brownies is the oldest “Polar Bear Club” in the US, making their frigid dip in the harbor since 1904.
Hundreds came together for this year’s event, which began with a march at the L Street Tavern before moving along Eighth Street and ending at M Street Beach.
The event was open to all that wanted to participate, whether they were running headfirst into the water or staying warmer and enjoying the view from the shore.
On a warmer-than-anticipated New Year’s Day, swimmers and spectators said they enjoyed temperatures in the mid-30s.
“The water’s nice,” one person said. “It’s very nice.”
Now spanning 121 years, the L Street Brownies polar plunge tradition aims to promote friendship, health and fun in the community.
(Copyright (c) 2026 Sunbeam Television. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)