Arona Winter Plunge

The coldest dip of the year on Lake Maggiore

The Arona Winter Plunge is one of the most beloved and anticipated events of the Arona winter season. Every year, in early February, the lakefront of the town of Arona, in the Province of Novara, comes alive with dozens of participants ready to dive into the icy waters of Lake Maggiore. It is a tradition that has lasted for decades, becoming a symbol of pride and community spirit for this Piedmontese town overlooking the lake.

A challenge against the cold open to everyone

The heart of the event is the collective plunge: at the agreed signal, the brave participants submerge themselves together in the lake waters, where the temperature generally hovers around 8°C, while the air is often much colder. It is not a test of endurance, but a gesture of courage and celebration that brings together experienced swimmers, athletes, children with their guardians, and veterans with dozens of participations under their belts. Each edition symbolically rewards the youngest participant, the oldest, and those who have traveled the furthest.

The ICE Sprint, a race in memory of Sandro Ferrari

Immediately after the plunge, the ICE Sprint takes place, a 50-meter swimming race dedicated to the memory of Professor Sandro Ferrari, one of the founders of the Arona tradition. It is the most spectacular moment of the day, with competitors racing in the freezing waters in front of the public gathered on the shore. The event also commemorates Giuseppe De Micheli "Pep", another historical figure of the event.

Safety and collaboration

The organization is managed by Pro Loco Arona in collaboration with the Municipality of Arona and the Amici del Lago association. Safety in the water and on land is guaranteed by the presence of Acquaviva Salvamento and the Red Cross, who assist participants throughout all phases of the plunge.

A celebration for the whole community

Beyond the swim itself, the Winter Plunge is a gathering point for locals and the many curious onlookers who reach the lakefront: a convivial appointment that symbolically opens the year's event calendar and celebrates the deep bond between the city of Arona and its Lake Maggiore.