Chicago River Swim Expands for 2026 with Global Athletes and Civic Leaders

The weekend kicks off with 'The Big Jump' on September 18, offering a rare opportunity for the public to enter the river near the Dearborn Street bridge. Mayor Brandon Johnson will lead the proceedings, joined by notable figures including Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron and Chicago Bears legend Charles Tillman. The event serves as a fundraiser for ALS research and youth swimming programs, continuing a tradition that began in 2017 to demonstrate the river's improved water quality.

On Sunday, September 20, the focus shifts to the expanded Chicago River Swim. The field has grown from 500 to 750 swimmers, with participants tackling one- and two-mile courses. The roster of athletes features a global cohort, including Dutch gold medalist Maarten van der Weijden, Czech ice-swimming champion Max Munson, and Paralympic silver medalist Ahalya Lettenberger. This international presence highlights a shared commitment to urban water access, mirroring successful models like the Amsterdam City Swim.

The event marks a significant milestone in the decades-long effort to transform the Chicago-Calumet River system. Supported by a coalition of partners including the Shedd Aquarium and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, water quality will be monitored throughout the weekend by experts from the University of Illinois Chicago. Beyond the competition, the swim provides a platform for the ALS community, notably through a tandem effort where swimmer Paul Sommer will pull Jeff Birkels, who lives with the disease, across the two-mile course.