Neujahrsbaden Borkum (DLRG)

An Island New Year Tradition

The Neujahrsbaden is a fixed event on Borkum between the years. Unlike on many Baltic Sea beaches, where the Neujahrsbaden is a major tourist event, the Borkum format retains a distinctly insular character. The DLRG local group Borkum organizes the event with the necessary safety measures and provides medical and logistical support for the participants afterwards.

Meeting Point Middelhüsche

The swimmers meet at Middelhüsche, a section of the beach in the center of Borkum. The joint swim traditionally starts at 2:00 PM – a time of day when the North Sea reaches its warmest temperature under winter conditions and there is sufficient daylight for safety measures.

2026: Postponed to January 3rd Due to Weather

The Neujahrsbaden, originally planned for January 1st, 2026, had to be postponed due to weather conditions – a quite regular necessity given the changeable conditions on the North Sea. The new date was January 3rd, 2026, with 145 registered participants who ventured into the waves together with the DLRG.

Character and Symbolism

The Neujahrsbaden is not primarily a sporting event, but a symbolic act. The plunge into the cold sea marks the transition into the new year – and is also a commitment to the island and DLRG community. Those who participate in the Neujahrsbaden experience an intense, short, and formative experience – and belong to the circle of Borkum New Year swimmers for a year.