WHAT IS THE BIG JUMP?

It's exactly what it sounds like - a splash for Chicago history!

Inspired by the Polar Plunge, local leaders, celebrities, environmental champions, and donors are linking arms to jump into the Chicago River in a unified show of celebration.

This isn't just for endurance atheltes -- we're opening the water to you.

Only 100 public slots are available to take the plunge of a lifetime. Spots are strictly first-come, first-served!

  •  The Location: Right along the Chicago Riverwalk in front of Tiny Tapp (between Clark and Dearborn).

  •  Safety First: A fully cordoned-off swim perimeter with dedicated lifeguard coverage and safety controls will be in place for all participants.

  •  Pedestrian Notice: A small section of the Riverwalk under the Dearborn Street Bridge will be closed during the event.

 

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LEAP
To ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone, we ask that all participants meet the following guidelines:

  •  Age Limit: Jumpers must be 18 or older on event day.

  •  Water Confidence: You should feel comfortable swimming in deep, open water.

  •  Safety Gear: All jumpers will wear an event-provided personal swim buoy for the duration of the dip.

  •  Eye Protection: Goggles are needed for the swim (don't worry if you forget yours—we’ll have extras on hand!).

  •  Waiver & Entry: A completed liability waiver and payment of the full registration fee are required to reserve your spot. Extra fundraising is welcome, but totally optional!

JUMPER PERKS

Every jumper gets the VIP treatment! Your registration includes:

  •  A luxury swim robe to keep warm after your plunge

  •  A personal swim buoy to take home

  •  A commemorative t-shirt & goodie bag

  •  Complimentary lunch and refreshments served at Tiny Tapp

REGISTRATION & ENTRY FEES

  •  Entry Fee: $500 registration fee + a $20 U.S. Masters Swimming one-day license (fee waived for active USMS members).

  •  Bring a Friend! Raise an additional $500 through your custom fundraising page, and you'll score an exclusive guest pass so a friend can cheer you on from the Riverwalk and join the festivities at Tiny Tapp! (Note: Guest passes are for spectating and post-jump fun only).

 

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE
(all times subject to change)

Friday, September 18, 2026
  •  9:00 AM      Jumper Check-In Opens (under the Dearborn St. Bridge)
  •  10:00 AM    Opening Ceremonies
  •  10:15 AM    1st Group Jumps
  •  10:20 AM    2nd Group Jumps
  •  10:25 AM    3rd Group Jumps...
  •  11:45 AM    Final Group Jumps
  •  12:00 PM    All Swimmers Exit Water
  •  1:00 PM      Event Concludes

 

JUMPER LOGISTICS

• All jumpers will receive an estimated start time prior to the event.

• Jumpers will convene under the Dearborn Street Bridge to check-in.

• Changing tents, restrooms, and secured gear check will be available.

• Jumpers will be issued a personal swim buoy that must be worn through the duration of their swim.

• Goggles are required of all participants (we'll have backups, too).

• Participants must wear appropriate swim attire, including swim suits, wetsuits, skin suits, rash guards, and other water-relevant apparel. Common decency rules apply.

• Event Staff will corral each group prior to their scheduled start, provide a Safety Briefing, then lead them to the Start Area.

• Event Staff and Public Safety Officials have the authority to deny or remove anyone for uncooperative behavior.

• When instructed, Jumpers must enter the water feet-first (no diving)

• Once in the water, Jumpers will move from the “Jump Zone” into the “Swim Zone”

• Participants may remain in the water and swim for as long as permitted within the activation window.

• Jumpers will exit the water using fixed ladders in the same area. 

• Fresh water showers and robe service will be available upon exiting the swim area.

• Jumpers can then retrieve their Gear Check items and use the changing tents.

• Upon exiting, all Jumpers and VIP guests will be issued an event Goodie Bag, and boxed lunch voucher at Tiny Tapp.

 

Sound like a good time? Jump in today. Space is limited!