The annual event is said to date back to 1987 when three locals jokingly suggested a January 1 dip in the chilly waters of the Forth as a cure for Hogmanay hangovers.
From small beginnings, the event grew in size and popularity during the 1990s, was added to the official Edinburgh Hogmanay publicity material and even broadcast live by the BBC at the millennium.
The event usually attracts around 1,000 people, many in fancy dress, to raise money for charity. And some people come from abroad to take part in the swim.
The official Loony Dook was cancelled for new year 2021 and 2022 because of Covid and the 2023 event was not included in the official Hogmanay programme, but dedicated Dookers went ahead anyway.
Scroll through these pictures to enjoy Loony Dooks past – without having to take the plunge.
17. Pirates of the Forth
Around 1,000 people ran into the Firth of Forth from South Queensferry for the 2015 Loony Dook, many in fancy dress - like these two pirates. Photo: Katielee Arrowsmith
18. Smiling through
The smiles from this girl and her dad would make you think it was a summer’s day in South Queensferry, rather than January 1, 2024. | TSPL Photo: Alistair Pryde
19. All calm for the new year
It looks a calm, even bright, New Year's Day 2019 as these Loony Dookers joined around 1,100 others for the South Queensferry event. Photo: Roberto Ricciuti
20. Ship ahoy
Niamh O'onnell and Laura Mesa took to the sea in their specially-made boat as "Maids of the Forth" for the 2020 Loony Dook at South Queensferry. Photo: Ian Georgeson