Saanich Peninsula residents looking to kick off 2022 with a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean, and perhaps shake off any ill effects of New Year’s Eve activities, may have to wait a year for an organized event in their area.
The Peninsula Celebration Society has announced that COVID-19 has sunk its plans to stage its popular downtown Sidney Polar Bear Swim.
“Unfortunately, due to recent COVID restrictions announced by the (province) we will not be able to proceed with the Polar Bear swim on Jan. 1, 2022 as planned,” the society stated on its website. “We hope to see you at a future PCS event.”
RELATED: Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade first shines on, then dims off
COVID-19 concerns also caused cancellation of the 2021 version of the popular event, which has historically drawn dozens, if not hundreds to Sidney. Previous years have seen the event held just south of Tulista Park, before it was moved to Glass Beach in the downtown core.
It’s the second COVID-19-related cancellation in recent days for the society, which last week announced that for the second straight year, the Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade would not be happening.
Do you have a story tip? Email: vnc.editorial@blackpress.ca. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
