Race | Cream City Classic

EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT: In light of COVID-19, we will again be postponing the Cream City Classic in 2021. In line with the mission of this event, public health and safety are top priorities. At its heart, this open water swim race is about gathering together to celebrate the health of our common waters and we can't do that without putting the swimmers, volunteers, race timers, safety personnel, and spectators at risk.

The Cream City Classic has been an incredible celebration of progress made in water quality, promoting inclusion, access, and stewardship. You have shown us how meaningful and important this event is and we will swim again!

Milwaukee Water Commons is working on an alternative virtual event highlighting Milwaukee's shared water spaces and breaking down barriers to access. Stay tuned for updates and announcements for future events.

The Milwaukee River has come a long way in recent history. We've seen two dams removed, an increase in fish biodiversity, the establishment of a protected Milwaukee River Greenway, an abundance of anglers and kayakers, and downtown revitalization efforts that began with a Riverwalk and now extend to the Harbor District where the Milwaukee meets the Menomonee and the Kinnickinnic Rivers.

While we've come a long way, there is still work to be done. We must continue improving water quality, removing barriers to access, and creating pathways to our communities of color who have been disconnected from the water due to a history of cultural, systemic racism and segregation. In solidarity with People of Color and Indigenous people we can do better and we will.

The Cream City Classic is an opportunity to celebrate progress made in water quality and welcome our entire Milwaukee community back to the water as we all lift our expectations of what our waters can be. Please join us!

It's time to celebrate, protect, and reclaim these waters for all.

This is our water. Let's swim it!