Provincetown Swim for Life & Paddler Flotilla 2025
- 5-7 Sep
- Provincetown, MA
In September 2025 Provincetown will once again welcome swimmers, kayakers and fans from around the world for the Provincetown Swim for Life & Paddler Flotilla. Since its humble start in 1988 when artist Jay Critchley and dancer Walter McLean swam across Provincetown Harbor to raise money for local health services, this event has grown into a beloved community ritual that blends athletic challenge with environmental advocacy and heartfelt remembrance.
The 2025 Swim for Life weekend runs from Friday September 5 to Sunday September 7, with the main 1.2 ‑mile swim taking place on Saturday the 6th. Participants gather at Provincetown’s East End shoreline, where they plunge into the bay near the Breakwater Hotel and swim west toward Johnson Street Beach. Kayakers and paddleboarders accompany the swimmers, providing safety escorts and encouragement as they traverse the chilly Atlantic waters. Spectators line the shore at watch points like St Mary of the Harbor, the Cape Codder Guest House and other small landings along Commercial Street, waving banners and ringing cowbells to cheer on the swimmers.
Beyond the swim itself, the weekend is packed with traditions. Prayer ribbons bearing messages of hope and remembrance flutter in the sea breeze, and a lively Mermaid Brunch invites participants and supporters to share a meal after the swim. Local musicians perform at the Celebration of Life concert, celebrating those who have been affected by HIV/AIDS, cancer and other health challenges. Funds raised during the Swim for Life support a range of Provincetown organisations, including AIDS support groups, women’s health initiatives, youth programmes and environmental causes. Over the decades the event has raised millions of dollars while fostering a deep sense of connection among participants.
Travellers planning to attend should register early, as spots for swimmers and paddlers sell out quickly. Training for open‑water swimming and cold‑water conditions is recommended, and participants must arrange for their own kayak or paddle escort. If you prefer to support from the sidelines, join the shoreline watch parties or volunteer as a safety kayaker. Provincetown’s guest houses and inns fill up fast for the weekend, so book accommodation well in advance.
Whether you dive into the harbour or cheer from the sand, the Provincetown Swim for Life & Paddler Flotilla offers an inspiring blend of athleticism, community and compassion. The event reminds everyone that small acts – a stroke through cold water, a ribbon tied in the wind – can ripple outward to support health, wellness and environmental stewardship.
Official website:https://www.swim4life.org
The 2025 Swim for Life weekend runs from Friday September 5 to Sunday September 7, with the main 1.2 ‑mile swim taking place on Saturday the 6th. Participants gather at Provincetown’s East End shoreline, where they plunge into the bay near the Breakwater Hotel and swim west toward Johnson Street Beach. Kayakers and paddleboarders accompany the swimmers, providing safety escorts and encouragement as they traverse the chilly Atlantic waters. Spectators line the shore at watch points like St Mary of the Harbor, the Cape Codder Guest House and other small landings along Commercial Street, waving banners and ringing cowbells to cheer on the swimmers.
Beyond the swim itself, the weekend is packed with traditions. Prayer ribbons bearing messages of hope and remembrance flutter in the sea breeze, and a lively Mermaid Brunch invites participants and supporters to share a meal after the swim. Local musicians perform at the Celebration of Life concert, celebrating those who have been affected by HIV/AIDS, cancer and other health challenges. Funds raised during the Swim for Life support a range of Provincetown organisations, including AIDS support groups, women’s health initiatives, youth programmes and environmental causes. Over the decades the event has raised millions of dollars while fostering a deep sense of connection among participants.
Travellers planning to attend should register early, as spots for swimmers and paddlers sell out quickly. Training for open‑water swimming and cold‑water conditions is recommended, and participants must arrange for their own kayak or paddle escort. If you prefer to support from the sidelines, join the shoreline watch parties or volunteer as a safety kayaker. Provincetown’s guest houses and inns fill up fast for the weekend, so book accommodation well in advance.
Whether you dive into the harbour or cheer from the sand, the Provincetown Swim for Life & Paddler Flotilla offers an inspiring blend of athleticism, community and compassion. The event reminds everyone that small acts – a stroke through cold water, a ribbon tied in the wind – can ripple outward to support health, wellness and environmental stewardship.
Official website:https://www.swim4life.org
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