The Back Eddy has hosted a polar plunge into Westport Harbor for over 20 years, but the restaurant has decided to call it quits on the New Year's Day tradition.

"We are no longer hosting a polar plunge," owner Sal Liotta said in an email confirming the cancelation.

The event, considered crazy to fans of staying dry and warm, was to hundreds of people over the years a way to welcome in the new, bond with family and friends, raise money for good causes and reap the reported mind and body benefits of a jolt of cold water.

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Unlike other polar plunges, there was no such thing as getting one's feet wet at Back Eddy, where participants -- including Fun 107's Gazelle -- jumped into the water off the dock out back, instantly shocking their whole bodies.

Gazelle/Townsquare Media
Gazelle/Townsquare Media
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The Back Eddy has been footing the bill on this event for a long time. Jumpers got to enjoy free brunch inside after toweling off.

Liotta told us why the plunge is off -- for this year anyway.

"The insurance liability has become too great and too expensive," he said.

We completely understand Liotta and the tough decision he had to make. Hopefully, we can find another spot to continue the tradition if not this year then next.

Darn, and I was so thinking about taking the plunge this year too. (Not really.)

The cancelation of the plunge means The Back Eddy's last day of the season is New Year's Eve. The Bridge Street restaurant will be open until 9 p.m. It will re-open just in time for spring and summer fun on March 23, 2023.

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