#United States #Chicago #ALS Research #Chicago River Swim #Big Jump

Chicago River Swim and The Big Jump: A Celebration of Community and Water Safety

The return of the Chicago River Swim, taking place from September 18 to 20, 2026, is eagerly anticipated as it brings back the renowned event known as 'The Big Jump.' This year, under the leadership of Mayor Brandon Johnson, the event expands its participation capacity to include 750 swimmers, making it a significant occasion for both athletes and the Chicago community.

The Big Jump serves as a unique opportunity for the public to dive into the revitalized Chicago River while supporting crucial causes, including ALS research and swimming education for youth. The event kicks off on Friday, September 18, welcoming not just local Chicagoans but also international participants such as Olympians, Paralympians, and civic leaders from various parts of the globe. Notable figures like Olympic gold medalist Maarten van der Weijden and Chicago Bears legend Charles Tillman are set to join in the excitement, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the event.

Mayor Johnson emphasizes the importance of this gathering, stating, "The Chicago River belongs to all of Chicago, and The Big Jump is a powerful way to celebrate how far our city has come." This aligns with years of effort to restore the river's health and ensure it remains accessible to everyone, reinforcing the connection between the community and their urban waterway.

The rich history of The Big Jump dates back to its inception in 2017, initially celebrated in Chinatown. The event symbolizes the progress made in transforming the Chicago-Calumet River system into a safe environment for swimming, thanks to collaborative efforts among public officials, organizations, and community advocates. This year's rendition promises to be an even more inclusive experience, significantly enhancing public access to and interest in the river.

Preparing for the River Swim

On Sunday, September 20, participants will have the chance to partake in either one or two-mile swimming events along the historic Chicago River. With the field expanded, registration is open for a limited number of additional spots, making it a perfect opportunity for swimmers seeking a fun and meaningful experience.

The preparations for the swim weekend include careful monitoring of water quality by experts from the University of Illinois Chicago. This ensures the safety of all participants as they enjoy a refreshing swim in the heart of the city. The Chicago River Swim isn't just about swimming; it highlights a dedication to enhancing public safety and the quality of the river, which has been the focus of significant environmental advocacy.

Highlighting International Participation

Participation is truly global this year. Olympians and Paralympians from countries including the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and Ireland will join American swimmers for a weekend of athleticism and camaraderie. U.S. Olympic silver medalist Maritza Correia McClendon will also advocate for swim education, aligning with the USA Swimming Foundation to promote safety skills for young swimmers.

Unique stories abound, including that of Maarten van der Weijden, who is not just an Olympic champion but also a leukemia survivor. His ongoing efforts to raise funds for cancer research through endurance swims reflect the spirit of charity that is at the core of the Chicago River Swim.

In addition to athletic contributions, the event promises to be festive, with representatives from Dublin, including Lord Mayor Daryl Barron, celebrating cultural and historical ties between the two cities, emphasizing the critical role rivers play in urban life.

Joining the Fun

For those interested in participating, registration for The Big Jump is available at a fee of $500, with proceeds directly supporting ALS research and youth swim education. Swimmers who successfully raise $1,000 or more can bring guests to share in the experience, while every participant will receive a commemorative T-shirt and goodie bag.

The Chicago River Swim is not only a chance to swim but also an event rooted in purpose. It's designed to raise awareness and necessary funds for ALS research, particularly through organizations like A Long Swim, which have already collected significant donations to support innovative research efforts.

As the weekend approaches, everyone from seasoned swimmers to beginners is encouraged to check the registration requirements and participate in this remarkable event. The Chicago River Swim is more than just an athletic event; it's a celebration of community, perseverance, and the historic transformation of one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks.

For further details, visit ChicagoRiverSwim.org to learn more about how to engage in this meaningful swim and contribute to a vital cause that impacts the lives of many in the Chicago area.

Why You Should Participate

The Chicago River Swim promises not only an athleticism showcase but also an opportunity to be part of something bigger—an advocacy for water safety, an investment in health and community wellbeing, and an adventure in one of America’s most storied cities. So mark your calendars and prepare to jump into the fun, make new friends, advocate for an essential cause, and witness firsthand the revitalization of the Chicago River!

Let's dive in together for charity and community at this extraordinary event.