About the Christmas Swim
A Galway Christmas tradition of generosity and community.
Since 1989, hundreds of Galwegians - and those home for the holidays - have braved the cold winter waters at Blackrock Pier in Salthill to support COPE Galway’s essential services.
Now, more than three decades on, the tradition continues to grow, bringing together swimmers of all ages and abilities. Many have made it a cherished part of their Christmas, diving in each year to make a difference for families and individuals across Galway.
The 2025 COPE Galway Christmas Swim celebrates 36 years of this enduring local tradition. You can take part on Christmas Day at Blackrock, Salthill (9 am – 1 pm) or anytime, anywhere throughout December.
Each year, many participants join in from abroad, connecting with loved ones at home through this shared Galway tradition that warms hearts, even in the coldest water.
Christmas Swim FAQs
How much does it cost to register?
Registration is €20 for adults and €5 for children.
As part of the registration, you can also buy a swim t-shirt, a beanie, a pair of ‘Brave the Cold’ fluffy socks or a phone pouch. There’s also an option to add a donation to support COPE Galway’s work.
What is the difference between a family and team registration?
A family registration allows up to 10 family members to register together.
A team registration is ideal for workplace and school teams. With a team registration, you first create a team, then team members can register as individuals and join the team while they register, or you can pay the registration fee of the whole team.
Do I have to fundraise?
No. You do not have to fundraise to take part.
However, over half of the funds raised through the Christmas Swim are from people for go further and fundraise for their swim. Even asking five people you know to donate just €10 each, raises €50 towards keeping COPE Galway’s vital services operating.
How do I get my Christmas Swim t-shirt?
When you register you will be given three delivery options :
Receive your pack by post (Please keep in mind Christmas post dates).
Collect your swim t-shirt and pack from the COPE Galway Charity Shop, Newtownsmith, H91 HY4E. Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm.
Can I register on Christmas Day?
We are encouraging everyone to register online before Christmas Day. There will be no registration on the day, though we have some t-shirts and options to donate in cash or online.
I am not in Galway, can I still join the Christmas Swim?
Absolutely! We would love for you to join us. Register and swim wherever you are, any day from 20-26 December. When you swim, share your swim on social media, use #COPEGalwaySwim, #IBravedtheCOLD and tag @copegalway, so we can share your photos too.
Please read our safety advice for wherever and however you choose to join the swim.
What do I need to bring for my swim?
Swimwear. It is recommended that participants wear wetsuits and bright-coloured hats if possible.
Towel and warm clothes. Dry up quickly after your swim, then wrap up in extra layers of clothing, including a warm waterproof jacket/coat, hat and scarf.
Hot water bottle and a flask of hot drink – warm up quickly afterwards.
Will there be lifeguards and first aiders?
On Christmas morning at Blackrock, COPE Galway will have lifeguards and qualified first aid personnel from 9am-1pm.
If you are swimming anywhere outside of that time, there will be no lifeguards on duty.
Please read our safety advice for wherever and however you choose to #bravethecold.
What should I do if there is a weather warning?
In the case of a Met Eireann weather warning we will send out a communication to let you know that the event is cancelled and will be rescheduled.
Do you have another question?
If you have any other questions, email us at swim@copegalway.ie or 091 778 750. You can also ask your questions in the COPE Galway Swimmers Facebook group.
Staying Safe While You Swim for COPE Galway.
Your safety is our top priority. Before you participate in the COPE Galway Christmas Swim, please take the time to our safety guidelines and follow all available safety information to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable swim.
Why brave the cold for COPE Galway
Our services are a vital support for families and individuals facing homelessness, women and children impacted by domestic abuse and older people in our community who need social and nutritional support.
The brave swimmers who take part in the swim help ensure that our services are available to support people across Galway city and county when they need it most – over Christmas and throughout the year.
