Great Newburgh to Beacon Hudson River Swim Now Canceled

An annual fundraising event that has become a Hudson Valley tradition over the past two-plus decades, has officially been canceled for 2026. For only the second time in 22 years, the Great Newburgh to Beacon Hudson River Swim is no longer happening.

The River Pool at Beacon via Facebook, Canva

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Insurance Issues Prevent Swim Fundraiser From Taking Place This Year.

Despite many attempts to find a viable alternative, we have been forced to cancel

This is what was shared on the River Pool at Beacon Facebook page ahead of the holiday weekend, providing an unfortunate update about the status of this year's voyage between Newburgh and Beacon for a great cause.

We are so disappointed to announce that The Great Newburgh to Beacon Hudson River Swim is no longer happening this year. Due to issues with insurance at the dock where swimmers splash into the water, and despite many attempts to find a viable alternative, we have been forced to cancel.

The 'Swim' as it is referred to, an annual event dating back to 2007, typically brings in $50,000 that goes directly to the maintenance, upkeep and staffing of the River Pool at Beacon, thus making the pool a free community resource for visitors.

Registration is limited to 225 swimmers who are asked to raise a non-refundable $100 (minimum) sponsorship donation in order to participate. There is also a $75 registration fee in order to participate.

Organizers have shared that registration fees and donations collected to this point will be refunded as a result of the cancellation.

SEE ALSO: The River Pool at Beacon Open For 2026 Season

River Pool Remains Open Despite Fundraiser Cancellation

Even though the 'Swim' itself has been cancelled for 2026 (with plans to bring it back in 2027), the River Pool itself remains open for open swimming, Tuesday through Sunday 12pm-6pm. Those interested in donating to help with the operation and upkeep of the River Pool can do so, here.

River Pool at Beacon via Facebook

The River Pool will host summer concerts select Tuesday nights throughout the summer at 6:30pm. Tuesday July 7th featuring Bosco and the Storm [has been rescheduled for Wednesday July 8th], Tuesday July 21 Angel Lau and friends, Tuesday August 4th Neil Alexander and NAIL, and Tuesday August 11th Jeff Koch and friends.

Music will take place adjacent to the River Pool at Pete and Toshi Seeger Park, 123 Red Flynn Dr, Beacon, NY 12508, with parking next to the bridge.