Photos of the Week: Icy Hearts, Warm Beach, Raging Fire

Joseph Prezioso / AFP / Getty

A reveler dressed as Frankenstein’s monster plunges into the ocean during a snow storm on January 1, 2026, in Boston. The polar plunge on New Year’s Day dates back more than 100 years in the city, but many people, mainly members of the L Street Brownies, take daily swims 365 days a year in the ocean.

R.Satish BABU / AFP / Getty

An artist poses for a photograph before performing at the Veethi Virudhu Vizha festival, showcasing traditional Indian art forms, in Chennai, on January 4, 2026.