"Polar Plunge Tradition Thrives with New Year's Swims in Boston and New York"

The annual L Street Brownies Polar Plunge in South Boston saw participants, including those in costumes, take a chilly dip in the ocean to ring in the new year. With air temperatures at 33 degrees and water temperatures in the low 40s, the event attracted a mix of thrill-seekers and tradition-keepers, some honoring loved ones or seeking a refreshing start to 2024. The Brownies, now a registered non-profit, raised about $12,000 for local causes, reflecting the community's spirit of giving. The event, which has grown significantly over the years, had an estimated 2,500 people in attendance, including swimmers, supporters, and spectators.