34. Toronto’s Polar Bears

Some Toronto traditions are crazy, but they help an important cause. The 6^th Annual Habitat for Humanity Polar Bear Dip on January 1, 2011 raises money to “give a hand up, not a hand out to families in need.” It helps build houses. For spectators, the thrill of watching grownup men and women jumping into an icy Lake Ontario is free. Participants pay $20 or get someone to sponsor them.  It’s 12 noon beside Sunnyside Pool at 1755 Lakeshore Blvd. Take the 501 Long Branch streetcar west on Queen St. to Roncesvalles. Walk about 12 minutes west along the lake.