Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip: Chillin’ in the Gulf on New Year’s Day

Continuing what has become a New Year’s tradition on the coast, the Flora-Bama Lounge invites everyone to take a quick dip in the Gulf of Mexico on January 1, 2021. Scores of partiers, some in costume and others wearing nothing but their swimsuits, will gather on the beach outside the iconic roadhouse at high noon for the annual Polar Bear Dip. And it takes more than the chilly (think mid-fifties) water to dampen the enthusiasm of this crowd, which typically numbers 1,000 people or more.

The free event, which is open to all ages, starts around 11 a.m., with the dip in the Gulf scheduled for noon. The watery free-for-all is followed by a traditional feast of black-eyed peas, cornbread, ham, greens, and more. For all who “fully submerge,” there is no charge for the feast, which includes a free draft beer for the adults. There will be live music all day long, and plenty of fun for everyone. Polar Bear Dip towels and T-shirts will be available for sale at the gift shop.

The Flora-Bama Lounge is located at the Alabama/Florida state line, between Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key, Florida. In addition to hosting special events like the Polar Bear Dip, the Interstate Mullet Toss, and Bulls on the Beach, it features live entertainment daily, three restaurants (Flora-Bama Oyster Bar, Yacht Club, and Ole River Grill), a package store, a gift shop, and multiple bar areas. It’s also one of the main venues for the annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, which is held each October on Perdido Key and in neighboring Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

Where To Stay in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Perdido Key

Check out our listings at Orange Beach vacation rentals, Perdido Key vacation rentals, and Gulf Shores vacation rentals for places to stay in the area. Accommodations include single-family homes, hotels, and condos. Here’s hoping you have a safe and happy new year!