Members of the České otužilecké unie (Czech Ice Swimming Union) will gather for the 14th time on Monday, 6 January 2025, at 12:00 noon to once again dive into the icy waters of the Vltava River from Vodouch-type vessels. The swim will begin beneath the Charles Bridge, with participants then swimming towards the hidden underground harbour, Judita, which dates back to the 12th century.
The event is traditionally organised by Pražské Benátky in cooperation with the Charles Bridge Museum. Each year, the number of participants in this chilly experience on Three Kings’ Day (Epiphany) grows. Around 50 participants have registered for this year’s event.
“Aside from the traditional punch, we’ve also prepared lentil soup and a free ticket to the exhibition of traditional Czech nativity scenes, which will be on display in our museum until 2 February,” says Zdeněk Bergman, Director of the Charles Bridge Museum.
The daring swimmers will leap into the cold waters near the fifth pillar of the Charles Bridge—where, according to legend, St. John of Nepomuk was thrown into the Vltava. The route spans about 200 metres and ends at the Pražské Benátky landing stage beneath Křížovnické náměstí. Participants will also receive a commemorative diploma, which will be presented by Vladimír Komárek, Chairman of the Czech Ice Swimming Union.
Schedule of the Event:
- 11:45 a.m. – Photographing participants in front of the Charles Bridge Museum
- 12:00 p.m. – Departure of the boats with the ice swimmers on board
- 12:30 p.m. – Arrival of the ice floats at the landing stage near Charles Bridge
- 1:30 p.m. – Ceremonial presentation of diplomas
Pražské Benátky (ENG)
Charles Bridge Museum (ENG)
