New Years Swim in Zandvoort

Want to start the new year off fresh? Come to the fun New Year's Swim in Zandvoort. On January first, you can join thousands of others and dive into the chilly waves. Did you know that Zandvoort's Swim is the oldest in the country? In 1960, a gentleman called Ok van Batenburg and a group of other members of swimming club Njord ’59 from Haarlem started this tradition.

Young or old, male or female, grandchild or grandparent, everyone is welcome. There is no fee and you can sign on in advance on the website, or on new year's day between 12:30 and 13:45. After signing on, you will receive a fun and warm present. And after the swim, you will get a nice hot cup of soup and a certificate.

Before everyone dives in, there’s a special warming-up with great music. Then you strip down to your swimming costume and once the starting sign is given, you and thousands of others run towards the sea for a bracing dive. Afterwards, you towel yourself dry and quickly pull on some clothes. There are no changing rooms or showers available, so make sure you have your swimming costume on underneath your clothes. And please bring a big, warm towel, dressing gown or track suit!

Do you not live in Zandvoort, but would you really like a place to take a hot shower? Just book a room in one of the many accommodations in Zandvoort.

If you're coming by car, it will be easy to park on the boulevard. But do arrive on time, because there will be many people interested in the New Year's Swim. If you're coming by train, it's about a 5 minute walk from the station. Do check the train times, because both trains and buses have a different time schedule on new year's day.