Every year on New Year’s Day since 1946, a group of brave men in Rome have continued the tradition of diving off the 18m high Cavour Bridge. This year, the torch was passed from Maurizio Palmulli, known as ‘Mr. Ok,’ to Marco Fois as he retired from diving. The tradition is a symbol of courage and celebration, welcoming the new year with a bold gesture that has become a part of the city’s culture.
Meanwhile, in Berlin, another group of fearless individuals marked the start of 2025 with their annual ice bathing tradition. Despite the freezing temperatures, swimmers took to the cold water to swim and dance, embracing the new year with a sense of resilience and vitality. This tradition, like the one in Rome, is a testament to the human spirit and the power of community coming together to celebrate a new beginning.
The dive off the Cavour Bridge and the ice bathing in Berlin are more than just traditions – they are expressions of joy, courage, and unity. In Rome, the act of diving off the bridge is a way to kick off the new year with a sense of adventure and daring. In Berlin, the ice bathing tradition is a way for individuals to come together and celebrate the start of a new year, regardless of the cold weather. Both traditions serve as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of coming together as a community.
The passing of the torch from ‘Mr. Ok’ to Marco Fois in Rome symbolizes the continuity of the tradition and the passing down of courage and spirit from one generation to the next. It is a reminder that while individuals may come and go, the tradition itself lives on, transcending time and generations. Similarly, in Berlin, the annual ice bathing tradition is a way for participants to connect with each other and celebrate the start of a new year, creating lasting memories and bonds that will continue to be cherished in the years to come.
As we enter the new year, these traditions serve as a reminder of the power of human connection and the importance of coming together to celebrate and embrace new beginnings. Whether diving off a bridge in Rome or swimming in icy waters in Berlin, these traditions are a testament to the resilience and vitality of the human spirit. They remind us that no matter what challenges may come our way, we can always find strength and joy in coming together as a community to welcome the future with hope and courage.
