Hundreds take traditional New Year swim at Barcelona beach

Hundreds of swimmers braved the chilly 14.5°C Mediterranean waters at Barcelona’s Barceloneta beach for the traditional New Year’s first dip, many adding festive flair with Santa hats and novelty glasses. The annual plunge is celebrated as a joyful way to kick off 2026 with family and friends.

Bruna Casas and Elena Rodriguez

2 January 2026 at 02:45:23

Barcelona kicks off 2026 with hundreds taking the traditional New Year’s Day plunge into the chilly Mediterranean.

Bruna Casas

Hundreds of brave swimmers jumped into freezing waters on Barcelona beach on Thursday (January 1) to take part in the traditional first bath of the year in the Mediterranean Sea.

Under the bright winter sun, participants dashed from the sand into waters reaching a brisk 14.5C (58.1°F).

One swimmer said he has been taking part in this tradition for many years, adding it is the best way to start the year in the sea, on the beach at Barceloneta, 'with family, with our people'.

Many added a festive touch to the occasion, sporting Santa hats and novelty glasses to mark the first day of 2026.

-Bruna Casas and Elena Rodriguez