The Irish have an amazing Christmas tradition! Many people flock to Irish beaches on December 25 for one purpose only: a swim in the icy waters of the Irish Sea! Admittedly, December isn’t the most appropriate month for a swim, but that’s part of the game: the Irish like to plunge into icy water once a year: it wakes you up, and it’s good for your health! Some might call them crazy, but the Irish have a reputation for being adventurous!
The Irish have always loved a challenge! And what could be better than having to take a dip in the Irish Sea on December 25, when the thermometer is approaching 0°C? The challenge may make you smile, but it’s taken very seriously by many local residents.
More than a tradition, this bath would help them start the year off on the right foot. A sort of counter reset!
So it’s in a bathing suit, and wearing a Santa hat, that the bravest jump into the water. An intense moment, especially very short, which has the merit of invigorating! Many howl at the contact of water, laugh, and reach particularly high sound frequencies! There’s no age limit on swimming, whether you’re with family or friends! Young and old try their hand at it, in a friendly, good-natured atmosphere that’s conducive to self-deprecation!
The tradition of Christmas ice baths goes back decades. It’s a way for coastal communities to get together and celebrate the festive season in, shall we say, a rather invigorating way. A number of Irish beaches, especially in Dublin and County Cork, become the scene of these winter dives.
While some take to the water for the simple pleasure of a unique experience, many also do it for a good cause. In fact, these swims are often organized in partnership with charities. What could be better than refreshing yourself while doing a good deed?
Ireland is home to many icy bathing spots. However, the best-known is undoubtedly Forty Foot, near Dublin, in the small coastal village of Sandycove. This rocky promontory overlooks the Irish Sea. It’s ideal for jumping into the water without thinking!
There’s also the Blackrock Diving Tower at Salthill near Galway. A kind of diving board that lets you plunge straight into the Atlantic!
Whether you’re an old hand or a newcomer, the Christmas ice bath is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories. It’s also a unique way to experience the festive season the Irish way. So, are you ready to take the plunge?
For those brave enough to brave the cold waves, look forward to an exhilarating experience! Regular users will tell you that, once you’ve got over the initial shock, it’s a feeling of well-being that invades the body. And, between us, what better way to wake up after the previous day’s festivities?
Needless to say, this kind of activity is not for everyone. If you have any health problems, it’s best to ask your doctor’s advice. And of course, it’s strongly recommended not to consume alcohol before the big jump. We want to keep the experience fun and safe for everyone!
If the idea of dipping your toes in the icy sea already sends shivers down your spine, don’t panic. You can always warm up with a good Irish whiskey as you watch the more daring sail into the waves. That’s the spirit of Christmas in Ireland!
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