There are thousands of News Year's Day traditions but one particularly special one is the Polar Bear Plunge on Coney Island.

Thousands of people flocked to the boardwalk and into the ocean waters despite the cool temperatures. Taking the brave plunge into the chilly water, participants washed away their 2024 hardships, and refreshed their ambitions for 2025.

This unique tradition is also an annual day for community fundraising.

Ernest Twomley tells News12 that he has been plunging on New Year's Day for over 40 years. He is the founder of Better Angels, a charity that helps bring gifts to children in need during the holidays across New York City. He plunged, wearing his Better Angels tank, with a big smile on his face.

Members of various other charities did the same.