Date: September 20, 2026
JOIN US FOR ANOTHER HISTORIC SWIM
The Chicago River Swim offers participants the once-in-a-lifetime experience to swim among the city's iconic skyscrapers and under its historic bridges. The event offers 1-Mile and 2-Mile distances.
Click below to learn about the event qualifications and requirements.
VOLUNTEER ROLES NOW AVAILABLE
Initial volunteer positions have been posted and are now available to RSVP. Additional roles, including Lifeguards and Kayak Support, will be posted in the coming weeks for qualified individuals. Visit the Volunteer page for details.
2025 Event Recap
2025 Event Impact
See the metrics behind the inaugural Chicago River Swim
2025 Media Coverage
Witness what 3 billion media impressions looks like!
2025 Participant Results
Search the list of award winners and participants alike
2025 Event Photos
View the Chicago River Swim for yourself
2025 CHICAGO RIVER SWIM HYPE VIDEO
HOW'S THE WATER QUALITY?
Have a look at the most recent qPCR water quality results by location within the Swim Course (along each bridge).
APPLICATIONS CLOSED
Applications for CRS have formally closed, although a handful of post-close entries are available to select individuals. Click below to learn more.
THE SWIM COURSE
From Marina Towers to the Wolf Point confluence, check out the swim course that will make history this September.
— 100 YEARS AGO
RIVER SWIMS WERE THE BEES KNEES
The Chicago River's flow was reversed nearly 125 years ago to draw fresh water from Lake Michigan and clean a polluted river.
To celebrate the waterway's drastic turnaround, the Illinois Athletic Association began hosting a series of open water swims back in 1908.
The river swims attracted the highest-profile swimmers in the world, and more than 100,000 spectators lined the shore. The Chicago River Swims were a jewel in the crown of our young, vibrant city.
Sponsors List
All Levels Proud Partners
