13. Big Jump from the Weser Stone

On the occasion of this year's European River Swimming Day, the international "Big Jump" will take place on July 12, 2026, at the Weserstein in Hann. Münden. Swimmers will start at 2:00 PM from the legendary Weserstein in Hann. Münden (river km 0.0) and swim approximately 9 km downstream to the district of Vaake in the Weser municipality of Reinhardshagen. There, the swimmers will exit at the boat dock on the left bank at river km 9.2. The Europe-wide action aims to raise awareness for the fight for better water protection in European waters, especially rivers. The city of Hann. Münden, located at the confluence of three rivers, is now highlighting for the eleventh time the ongoing salinization and other pollution of the rivers Werra, Fulda, and Weser, which threaten the livelihoods of the river organisms living there. Additionally, this event aims to enable river swimming on one day of the year. The Big Jump is not a race! As swimming in rivers is only safe under supervision, it may only take place in the company of organizations such as the THW (Federal Agency for Technical Relief) and lifeguards from the DLRG (German Lifeguard Association) and DRK Water Rescue Service, who have professionally supported the event in previous years. This indicates a high demand for qualified personnel, which is why a participation fee of 10 euros will be collected to support these aid organizations. Swimmers aged 14 and older can participate. Younger swimmers may only take part when accompanied by qualified supervisors, such as responsible adults or swimming instructors. Registrations can be sent to: vandorssen@hann.muenden-marketing.de