Kick off 2013 on Tuesday, Jan. 1, with Bellingham Parks and Recreation Department's annual Resolution Run/Walk at Lake Padden (at the west entrance/bath house).

The fun run starts at 11 a.m., with no set distance or formal timing. The Polar Dip is at noon in the lake, followed by goodies under heaters. Warm showers are available. All activities are free. Details: 360-778-7000.

If a swim in the bay is more to your liking, registration for the annual Birch Bay Polar Bear Swim, sponsored by the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, begins at 9:30 a.m. on the waterfront on Birch Bay Drive.

There is no cost to take the plunge, but people who register receive "I Took The Plunge" certificates and hot beverages. "I Took The Plunge" commemorative T-shirts are available for purchase at $15.

Costume judging is at 10:30 a.m. and the plunge is at 11 a.m. Details: 800-624-3555, blainechamber.com/events.

Reach MARGARET BIKMAN at margaret.bikman@bellinghamherald.com or 715-2273.