FAQ

What is the Sears Great Canadian Chill?
How much time must Chillers spend in the water?
What should I bring to the Chill?
Where is the Chill taking place?
Where should I park?
What time does the Chill take place?
Will there be food or beverages provided?
Can I bring friends or family with me?
Will there be prizes?
Who do my donations/pledges benefit?
Can I volunteer?
How can I receive additional information about the Chill?

What is the Sears Great Canadian Chill?

A traditional “polar bear dip” where Chillers rush into icy cold waters to raise money for the Sears Charitable Foundation to fund the 17 Canadian children’s pediatric oncology centers.

How much time must Chillers spend in the water?

Chillers may spend as little time in the water as they desire. Participants should be aware that body heat is lost at a much faster rate in water than on dry land, and should act accordingly. Get in, get out, get warm, and have FUN!

What should I bring to the Chill?

signed waiver
pledge form
Warm clothes for before and after the Chill
A towel
A bathing suit
Proper footwear such as old running shoes, water socks, or rubber shoes
Additional friends and family to cheer you on!

Where is the Chill taking place?

At Britannia Beach, Ottawa
View Map of Britannia Beach area

Where should I park?

Parking is available onsite at Britannia Beach.

What time does the Chill take place?

Check in opens at 11:00 am
Official Welcome & Costume Contest begins at 12:00 pm
Chillers "Chill" at 12:30 pm

Will there be food or beverages provided?

The Sears Great Canadian Chill will provide a festive environment with non-alcoholic beverages including hot chocolate, as well as light food from local restaurants.

Can I bring friends or family with me?

Absolutely. The more the merrier! There will be plenty of spectator viewing areas including a heated tent. Walk-up entries will also be accepted should your family and or friends decide to Chill with you. Please keep in mind that all participants must sign a waiver and wear proper footwear in order to participate in the Chill.

Will there be prizes?

Yes, the top fundraiser and the winner of the costume contest will receive prizes.

Who do my donations/pledges benefit?

All funds raised from The Sears Great Canadian Chill will be donated to The Sears Charitable Foundation. The foundation benefits kids cancer by funding 16 oncology centers both provincially and nationally.

All donations and pledges of $20 or more are eligible for tax receipts which will be emailed or mailed within two weeks after your donation is made online or in-person, respectively.

Can I volunteer?

Please do! Our event is only made possible with the help of volunteers like you. Volunteering for this interactive, fast- paced event can be very exciting. Assistance at any level is appreciated. If you are Fun, Energetic, and Enthusiastic, and are interested in volunteering for The Sears Great Canadian Chill then we would love to hear from you!

Volunteer duties may include participant registration, food and beverage, and helping in the overall experience. Please provide your contact information if you are interested, and we will get in touch with you shortly regarding all volunteer opportunities.

How can I receive additional information about the Chill?

Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive regular updates including event reminders, schedule changes, and location and parking information. For additional inquiries, please contact us at 1-855-93-CHILL (24455).