The Great Lake Plunge is Evanston's only open water swimming event. The swim consists of three events: 4K, 2K, 1K. This is a not-for-profit event which provides grants to support local water safety training and awareness This is a unique, family friendly event that will leave an impression for years to come. Visit our website for detailed information.
The racecourse is a 1K GPS buoyed rectangle. Swimmers will start at the southwest corner and be directed clockwise, first heading northwest, then turning northeast before returning southeast and finally southwest, back to the starting area. Buoys will be placed at the corners and halfway points.
The 1K swimmers swim 1 loop, 2K swimmers 2 loops, and 4K swimmers 4 loops.
Jul 26, 2026
Distance — 1K
Type — Water sports
07:00
$50.00
Jul 26, 2026
Distance — 1K
Type — Water sports
07:00
$50.00
Jul 26, 2026
Distance — 2K
Type — Water sports
07:00
$80.00
Jul 26, 2026
Distance — 2K
Type — Water sports
07:00
$80.00
Jul 26, 2026
Distance — 4K
Type — Water sports
07:00
$90.00
Jul 26, 2026
Distance — 4K
Type — Water sports
07:00
$90.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Evanston.
Learn more about the host city, Evanston.
Evanston is a city in the North Shore region of Illinois along the shores of Lake Michigan. Evanston has many identities: college town, dining destination, cultural center and gateway to the wealthy North Shore, although the city itself is anything but homogeneous in regards to economic status, culture and race.
Read more launchRead what other athletes have to say about their experience at the Great Lake Plunge.
Be the first to share your experience with the community!
Spotted an error or missing detail about the Great Lake Plunge? Help us improve.
Explore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Evanston, Illinois, US
calendar_today Sep 20, 2026
Hand-picked events we think you’ll love.
Sep 19, 2026
More than a race… It’s a celebration of you, your strength, and your sparkle! From coast to coast, tiara to tiara, the …
Read more
Oct 24, 2026
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just love to walk and take in the scenery, SKECHERS Wicked Wine Run is for you! Eac…
Read more
Nov 10, 2026
World's Best Running Series! No Time Limits Great Food Award-Winning Medals Loony Running Family! We RUN this country, …
Read more
Nov 08, 2026
Mark your calendars and plan to join us on Sunday, November 8, 2026, for our number 1 fundraiser of the year! The Annua…
Read more
