Chicago Approves Historic 2025 River Swim Event

The City of Chicago has approved the first open-water swim in the Chicago River in 98 years, scheduled for September 21, 2025, and organized by the nonprofit A Long Swim. The event will host 500 qualified swimmers on a one- or two-mile course starting at the Dearborn Street Bridge and ending near the Clark Street Bridge. Extensive safety measures include over 100 safety personnel, GPS tracking, real-time water quality monitoring, and a river closure by the U.S. Coast Guard. The swim will raise funds for ALS research at Northwestern University and support youth swim education programs, while highlighting Chicago's environmental progress. After last year’s attempt was moved to Lake Michigan due to a permit denial, organizers and Olympian Natalie Hinds celebrate the city's new approval as a historic milestone. Spectators can enjoy Riverwalk festivities, and swimmer applications are open with experience and fundraising requirements.