700 disguised people throw themselves into the water in Gruissan

Starting the year by taking a dip in the Mediterranean Sea: a tradition that brings together hundreds of people in Gruissan every year. Far from being discouraged by 12 degree water, 700 people in disguise took part in this invigorating New Year's bath, which has become a tradition in Aude.

Dressed as a chicken, a penguin, or even a stewardess, hundreds of Gruissanais of all ages took part in the famous January 1 bath, Wednesday January 1, on Chalets beach.

More or less motivated given the chilly weather: if some were unable to go beyond the level of the top of their legs in the sea, others went for it honestly.

“It’s the new year, we need lots of good resolutions, we need madness, we need to dare!” proclaimed a bather dressed as a “sissy”.

To give themselves courage before jumping into the deep end, many of them sang and shouted on the beach.

“We come here on purpose! We've been doing it with our family for years, it's great, we'll go back to the water for at least half an hour.” explained a very motivated young woman.

Organized for almost 20 years on Gruissan beach, this swim attracts new participants every year, and even people from other regions.

The mayor of Gruissan also visited the site: “it's important for the people of Gruissan to come together for fraternity and conviviality on this mythical beach of Chalets” affirmed Didier Codorniou in front of the France 3 Occitanie camera.

This big festive swim, intended to celebrate this new year together in sea water, would bring many benefits for the body. Enough, in any case, to evacuate toxins for those who celebrated a little too much during the New Year's Eve evening.

Tags France Occitanie