Spontaneous bursts of warmth and chilliness at New Year's pool party in Immenreuth
The small town of Immenreuth in Bavaria played host to its annual New Year's swim at the local natural experience pool. This unique event, which has become a tradition for many, welcomed 23 groups and individual swimmers to take a refreshing plunge into the icy waters.
One of the most dedicated participants is Christine Frenzl, who has not missed a single New Year's swim at the pool in the last 19 years. This year was no exception, as she braved the cold to join her fellow swimmers.
Natural experience pools, designed to mimic the conditions of natural bodies of water, offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly form of swimming compared to traditional chlorinated pools. The pool in Immenreuth was ice-free for the event, providing a perfect setting for the invigorating dip.
New Year's swims, or "polar bear dips," are common in many parts of the world. These events typically symbolize renewal, community, and tradition, as participants plunge into cold water to cleanse themselves of the past year and start anew. In some cases, these events also raise money for local charities or causes.
The event in Immenreuth was organized by the local branch of the Wasserwacht Kemnath, and included warming options such as a warmth hall, hot showers, sauna tub, hot water tub, and a sauna tent. This ensures that participants can enjoy the experience without suffering from the cold for too long.
Elsewhere in the region, the market square festival in Hirschau was enchanting with live music, dance shows, and culinary delights. In Kaltenbrunn, Thomas Knötig and his wife Stefanie opened a diving school, while the music corps of the city acted as a successful host at the event.
In Neustadt/WN, construction of the new Ostbayernring is underway, with power masts and bridge scaffolds visible on roads. And in Fuhrmannsreuth, the bell of the chapel has a special story, with the chapel itself celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The jubilee will be celebrated on August 23.
The surgery department of the Kemnath hospital and Leo from Brazil were also present at the New Year's swim in Immenreuth, adding to the diverse and lively atmosphere of the event. As the sun sets on another successful New Year's swim, participants can look forward to returning next year to continue the tradition.
Christine Frenzl, a stalwart participant, has attended the New Year's swim at the home-and-garden pool in Immenreuth for the past 19 years, illustrating her dedication to this unique lifestyle event. The Water Watch Kemnath, in organizing the swim, offers warming options such as saunas and warmshowers to promote a relaxing and enjoyable experience, broadening it beyond just the sports aspect.
