Clean the river, clean the banks: Volunteer for Chicago River Day

Chicago will host its annual Chicago River Day on Saturday, May 10, 2025. This event was created to unite the community in a shared effort to improve the health and beauty of the Chicago-Calumet River system. This volunteer-driven initiative, organized by Friends of the Chicago River, spans over seventy-five locations across the city, extending from Lake County to the Calumet region and further southwest to Summit and Palos. The event has become a cherished tradition, bringing together residents and families to engage in meaningful environmental work.

From 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., volunteers will participate in various activities, including picking up trash, mulching trails, and removing invasive plant species. The Chicago River has faced significant environmental challenges over the years, and these efforts are critical to its ongoing restoration. With the dedication of countless volunteers, the health of the Chicago River is steadily improving, and the river system is becoming more accessible and enjoyable for all who live near it.

Following the cleanup event, volunteers are invited to celebrate their hard work at an after-party from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Blue Island Beer Company and Burning Bush Brewery. The after-party provides an opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow volunteers. While registration is encouraged, walk-up volunteers are welcome to join in. Please note that availability may be limited at specific sites.

Three community hubs will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for those seeking additional ways to participate. These hubs will provide snacks, family-friendly activities, and information on the River Shallows Project, an ongoing effort to enhance the river’s aquatic environment. The hubs will be located at Canal Shores,Canal Origins Park, and Kickapoo Woods, offering multiple opportunities for community engagement throughout the day.

Since its inception in 1992, Chicago River Day has been vital to the city’s environmental efforts. Thousands of volunteers contribute every year to the cleanup and restoration of the river system. These efforts have helped remove millions of pounds of debris and invasive plant life, improving the overall health of the river and its surrounding ecosystems.

Chicago River Day is more than just a cleanup event it’s an opportunity for residents to come together, celebrate the beauty of the city’s waterways, and make a lasting impact on the environment. Whether you're a long-time Chicagoan or new to the area, your participation helps ensure that the Chicago River remains a vital and thriving part of the community.