Residents from throughout the area are being invited to kick off 2026 with a “splash” – Riverbank Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its second annual Polar Bear Plunge. The plunge is scheduled at the Riverbank Community Pool, 6649 Seventh St., Riverbank on Thursday, Jan. 1 from noon to 2 p.m.

For those brave enough to take the plunge, you can welcome the New Year in with this unique tradition.

Open to all ages, there will be hot chocolate and soup available poolside afterward for those taking the plunge.

Parks and Rec officials are also planning to provide medals to participants to prove they took part in the chilly start to the new year.

For more information, including regarding tickets for the plunge, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 209-863-7150.

Meanwhile, a Job Fair is being put on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Riverbank Teen Center, 3600 A Santa Fe, as the city is looking to fill some part time positions. Needed are summer lifeguards, recreation leaders and park aides. On the spot interviews will be conducted.

Also coming up through Parks and Rec, the third annual My Little One & Me Valentines Dinner Dance, set for Saturday, Feb. 7. The event will be hosted at the Riverbank Community Center, 3600 Santa Fe, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.