Chicago River Swim

The Chicago River Swim is a historic open water endurance swim through the Chicago River that raises funds and awareness for ALS research and youth swim education programs. The event is produced by A Long Swim, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing ALS research at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. The swim also highlights the remarkable environmental progress made in the Chicago River and celebrates Chicago’s connection to its waterways. Learn more at chicagoriverswim.org . Event Details Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026 Time: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM Location: Chicago River Main Stem (Dearborn St. Bridge → Clark St. Bridge) The swim will feature one-mile and two-mile courses through the heart of downtown Chicago, with spectators invited to watch from the Riverwalk and surrounding bridges. Application Details: Applications for the 2026 swim open March 31 and close April 27. Up to 500 qualified swimmers will be selected, with participants announced the week of May 4.