January Madness! Swimmers Take to Frosty Lake Balaton

Brave swimmers took to the icy waters of Lake Balaton on New Year’s Day to take a traditional splash in Hungary’s most popular vacation hot-spot, albeit one mostly reserved for the summer months.

The aim of the now traditional New Year’s Splash is for brave swimmers to be the first to retrieve a Christmas tree from the lake. Anyone can sign up for the splash, but only those who have been cleared by a doctor on location can take a dip in the ice-cold Lake Balaton. Entries are free of charge. Heated tents are provided for swimmer, and guests can enjoy hot tea, wine and mulled wine, traditional goulash soup, or fried “lángos” and chimney cakes from local caterers. Live music accompanies the festive event.

Photo: MTI/Katona Tibor

The Christmas tree was placed in the lake on the morning of 24 December during a small ceremony. This was a quieter event, but one that can be enjoyed from the shore with a hot drink.

Featured Image: MTI/Katona Tibor