The Christmas Swim of the White Bears of Biarritz: An Unmissable Tradition!
- Margaux Caillier
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
Every year in Biarritz, a unique event brings together the brave and the passionate: the White Bears’ Christmas Cup. This moment of pushing one’s limits and festive celebration has become a true institution on the Basque coast. As an underwater photographer, I’ve had the chance to capture this tradition from an original and immersive perspective. Here’s my take on this exceptional event.
The White Bears’ Christmas Swim: A Unique Basque Tradition
For several decades, the White Bears’ Christmas Swim in Biarritz has attracted locals and visitors alike, all ready to dive into the Atlantic Ocean, no matter the temperature. This tradition is much more than just a cold plunge—it embodies the warmth and festive spirit unique to the region. The participants, each more enthusiastic than the next, create a joyful and vibrant atmosphere that warms the heart despite the chilly water.
Among the highlights are the gathering on the beach, the lively marching band providing musical cheer, the loud countdown, and then the collective dash toward the waves. Each plunge is met with joyful shouts and bursts of laughter—a scene that is both invigorating and heartwarming.
A Photographic Challenge in an Exceptional Setting
Photographing this event is an adventure in itself. The cold water, the swell, the currents, the rocks, the winter light, and the constant movement of the participants all present unique challenges. My goal was to capture not only the energy and determination of the swimmers, but also the natural beauty of the ocean and the iconic Port-Vieux of Biarritz in winter, watched over by the protective gaze of the Virgin on her Rock.
For this project, I used a camera with a wide-angle lens and a waterproof housing, ideal for shooting in the water. The strong swell and currents made the task truly difficult. On top of that, being in the middle of a hundred swimmers added another level of complexity. I tried to photograph as many participants as possible, but they were everywhere—above and below the waves.
The Result: Images That Tell a Story
Each snapshot from this event tells a story. Among my favorite photos are those of the start, with swimmers hesitating between running straight in or slowly stepping into the water. Then there’s another one where a swimmer takes a moment to stop and give me a big smile, despite the cold that would make most people pull funny faces. These moments, both intimate and universal, capture the power of the present.
Another striking image captures groups of participants wearing pink caps for the flipper race and green caps for the race without flippers. They all launched into the waves together. They shouted to me, “It’s chaos, they’re everywhere!” through joyful bursts of laughter. The solidarity and collective joy shine through every detail of these images and are etched in my memory.
The Biarritz Polar Bears’ Christmas Swim is much more than a tradition: it’s an experience that brings people together, awakens the senses, and inspires. As an underwater photographer, I was honored to capture these unique moments and share them with you. Thank you to the Polar Bear crew for welcoming me like one of the family.
If this event sparks your curiosity, I invite you to experience it for yourself or explore more of my work through my galleries and social media. And if you’d like to immortalize your own aquatic adventures, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
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