Chicago River Swim

It’s a movement decades in the making, as anti-pollution laws and billions spent in overhauling sewer systems and cleaning contaminated riverbeds made waterways safe again for swimming. It’s been buoyed more recently by the rising popularity of open-water swimming, inspired by everything from the Olympic debut of a 10K swim in 2008 to the current wellness trend of cold-water immersion.

Now, urban swimming advocates are getting a boost from Swimmable Cities, a global grassroots movement chartered in 2024 that’s championing the right to swim in urban waterways.

Thumbs up all around! 👍

See you in the river, Sept. 20!

Congratulations to Doug McConnell on being recognized as a Award honoree! 🌟

The Daily Point of Light Award, presented by Points of Light, honors individuals creating meaningful change through volunteering and civic engagement.

Read how Doug continues to use his love for swimming to help find a cure for ALS: https://www.pointsoflight.org/awards/swimming-toward-a-cure-for-als/

Calling all new triathletes and novice swimmers looking to take their open water skills to the next level!

Open Water Swim Chicago's Swim Clinics are back.

Practice open water swimming in a safe, supportive, and non-intimidating environment while building confidence in the water.

This year's sessions are set for July 7, July 28, and August 18. Register now:
https://www.owschicago.com/

The urban swim revolution is growing! 🙌

Thank you to Dwell for including us in your recent piece. Shout out to all the other cities around the country and the world cleaning, transforming, and taking back our waterways!

Read the full piece here:

The Urban Swimming Revolution Is Here Across a growing number of European and American cities, people are taking back their waterways.

Come kayak with us! 🚣

In partnership with Urban Kayaks, we’ll be offering a 1-hour tour of the official Chicago River Swim course on June 30 at 11:00 a.m.

Get a preview of the athlete experience, learn about Urban Kayaks' event support, and network with fellow swimmers.

Register now at: https://book.singenuity.com/906/activity/details/5677/rates

Thank you to Wintrust for returning as a sponsor of the 2026 Chicago River Swim.

Together, we’re helping more Chicago children gain access to swim lessons and water safety resources.

We're grateful to continue our partnership as we head back to the river this fall.