💦 Big Jump: A Continent-Wide Plunge For Europe’s Rivers

Every summer, thousands of people across Europe jump into rivers to demand cleaner waters. Discover the Big Jump movement—what it is, why it matters, and how you can get involved.

The Big Jump is more than just a refreshing summer dive. It’s a powerful, symbolic act uniting thousands of people across Europe to call for the restoration and protection of rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

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🌍 What Is the Big Jump?

Organized every July by the European Rivers Network (ERN) and local partners, the Big Jump invites people to plunge into their local waterways at exactly the same time, creating a unified wave of awareness for clean, living rivers.

First launched in 2002, the event is timed around mid-July, chosen to highlight the importance of the EU Water Framework Directive—the core piece of legislation designed to protect and restore Europe’s freshwater bodies.

💧 Why Jump?

Many rivers in Europe remain heavily polluted, dammed, or diverted. The Big Jump campaign aims to:

Raise awareness of the urgent need to restore rivers to good ecological status.
Empower local communities to reconnect with their rivers.
Pressure decision-makers to uphold environmental commitments and policies.
Celebrate success stories in river restoration.

It’s a joyful protest—one that brings swimmers, kayakers, environmentalists, and families together for a shared splash with a serious message.

🏞️ Where It Happens: From the Alps to the Atlantic

Over the years, the Big Jump has taken place in more than 34 countries and thousands of locations—from alpine creeks to urban canals. Some of the most iconic Big Jump sites include:

Danube River (Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania)
Swimmers in Vienna, Budapest, and beyond take to the Danube to demand protection of Europe’s second-longest river.
Loire & Allier Rivers, France
Local groups like SOS Loire Vivante host Big Jumps to celebrate successful river restorations.
Rhine River, Germany & Switzerland
Once one of Europe’s most polluted rivers, the Rhine now sees annual Big Jumps to show off its ongoing recovery.
Tagus River, Portugal & Spain
Activists jump in to highlight concerns over dams, pollution, and water shortages along the Iberian Peninsula’s longest river.
Tara River, Montenegro
In the Balkans, the Big Jump is a defiant celebration of Europe’s last wild rivers threatened by small hydropower projects.
The Drava River
Big Jump – against the hydropower plants and excessive regulations

🧭 A River Movement You Can Join

The beauty of the Big Jump lies in its simplicity. Anyone can organize or join an event:

Find a local group or see if an event is happening near you.
Choose a safe, clean river spot—preferably one in need of protection or celebration.
Dive in on Big Jump Day, usually the second Sunday in July.
Share your jump using #BigJump on social media and tag your local authorities or environmental decision-makers.

Whether you’re swimming in the Rhine or wading into a small Slovenian creek, your voice and splash matter.

🌱 What It Achieves

Beyond fun and media buzz, the Big Jump has helped:

Stop destructive projects, such as hydropower dams in protected areas.
Reopen public debates about freshwater health and river access.
Strengthen local engagement in watershed stewardship.
Celebrate success, like dam removals, wetland restorations, and wildlife returns.

It’s a reminder that rivers belong to everyone, and everyone has a role in their future.

📅 When Is the Next Big Jump?

The Big Jump usually happens on the second Sunday of July each year.

To host or join an event, visit the official European Rivers Network Big Jump page or connect with local river protection groups in your country.

💬 Final Splash

The Big Jump is a joyful reminder that rivers are not just water channels—they are living, breathing ecosystems. By jumping in, we celebrate their beauty, raise our voices for their protection, and take a literal plunge into the cause.

So next July, pack your swimsuit and courage. Let’s make waves—together.