St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago : Green River Dyeing & Parades

Chicago Goes Green: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is memorable experience for Chicagoans as well as visitors.

You will be surprised that St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated throughout the city every year. Main attractions are green river and parade.

You will have great time experiencing vibrant parade and viewer’s favorite event of dyeing of the Chicago River.

Truth is that, whether you’re Irish by blood or just Irish at heart, Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is full of energy and offers something for everyone.

The Iconic Green River: A Chicago Tradition

The dyeing of the Chicago River on St. Patrick’s Day is a Chicago tradition. You must be thinking when did this tradition start?

Well, it began in 1962 and since then it has become never to miss tradition in Chicago.

On Saint Patrick’s Day River is dyed in green color using eco-friendly formula without affecting the ecosystem of the Chicago River.

I would say annual Chicago River dyeing on St. Patrick’s Day is unique experience as green color lasts only for few hours and then disappears.

To enjoy the best possible ways, you must consider to take a spot on Chicago Riverwalk or on one of the bridges over river in downtown Chicago.

Tips: Make sure to arrive early as it gets too crowded beyond your imagination.

The Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A Celebration of Irish Heritage

Following the river dyeing, the festivities continue with the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest and most spirited parades in the country. The parade route winds its way through downtown Chicago, starting at Columbus Drive and heading north towards Monroe Street.

The Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade is followed after the green river dyeing celebration. It is considered to be the largest and most spirited parades in the United States.

The parade starts at Columbus Drive and head towards Monroe Street in downtown Chicago.

I insist locals and tourists to attend this parade and see and experience it in person the energy and vibes at the parade.

At parade you will have great time enjoying live music and activities.

Explore Chicago’s Irish Side

As we know that the dyeing of the Chicago River and Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day parade are the main events, there are so many other celebrations are going on throughout the city including live music and family-friendly activities.

Following is the List of Things to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago:

Irish pubs and restaurants:

You will be surprised to know that Chicago has a rich Irish heritage. Speaking of strong Irish presence, there are so many Irish pubs and bars. I must say, you have to go out and experience the celebration at one of these Irish pubs or restaurants.

Following are few of locals’ favorite Irish Bars that gets crowded especially on St. Patrick’s Day

Fado Irish Pub – 100 W Grand Ave, Chicago IL 60654

Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro – 3905 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

D4 Irish Pub & Cafe – 345 E Ohio St Chicago, IL 60611

Lady Gregory’s Irish Bar – 5260 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

The Irish Nobleman – 1367 W Erie St, Chicago IL 60642

River Shannon – 425 W Armitage Ave, Chicago IL 60614

Overall, full of energy and vibes with classic dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and Irish stew, and of course, raise a glass of Guinness to toast the holiday.

Attend a St. Patrick’s Day festival:

Consider to attend one of St. Patrick’s Day festivals in the city.

At festival you will have great time enjoying range of activities, from Irish dance performances and traditional music to arts and crafts and family-friendly and kids friendly entertainment.

In my opinion, these festivals are a great way to learn more about Irish culture and celebrate the holiday with the community.

Explore Irish neighborhoods:

Personally it is not my favorite things to do on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, but if you are curious about Irish neighborhoods then I would recommend to visit areas like Beverly, Edison Park, and Norwood Park to experience the local Irish flavor and discover hidden gems.

Take a Chicago River Cruise:

I had great time enjoying the dyeing of the Chicago River with Chicago’s river cruise.

I must say, it was amazing to watch how river turns green while enjoying drinks and live bagpipe music in background.

It is one of a kind experience by the river, and most importantly on the river cruise.

Several cruise companies offer special St. Patrick’s Day cruises, providing a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and the green river.

These cruises often include live music, Irish food and drinks, and stunning views of the city. Following are few of the Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day river cruises for your reference:

St. Patrick’s Day Cruise by Wendella Cruises

St. Patrick’s Day Clover Cruise by Chicago’s First Lady

Architecture River Cruise by Shoreline Sightseeing

St. Patrick’s Day Water Taxi from Navy Pier

Tips for Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

• Plan ahead: St. Patrick’s Day celebration is popular among Chicagoans and visitors, every year thousands of people get together to celebrate the Irish heritage in Chicago.
  
  I highly recommend you to plan your trip ahead. Make sure to book your hotel room, flights, and any Chicago River cruises or events in advance to avoid last moment disappointment.
  
• Arrive early: If you want to see the dyeing of the Chicago River in action then please arrive early!
  
  Also St. Patrick’s Day parade is very popular and everyone is trying to get the best spot, so make sure to arrive early to get the best spot.
  
• Green, Green Green: St. Patrick’s Day is all about wearing green clothes. Make sure to dress in green. You’ll find everything from shamrock-themed accessories to full-fledged leprechaun costumes.

• Be prepared for crowds: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago gets very busy beyond your imagination, so be prepared for crowds and some waiting in lines.
  
• Pace yourself: The celebrations can last all day and into the night, so pace yourself and stay hydrated.
  
• Be respectful: Of Course being a Chicagoan, I request from my end too that even if St. Patrick’s Day is a time for fun, it’s also important to be respectful of the city and its residents.
  
• Embrace the spirit: Most importantly, embrace the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are a unique and unforgettable experience, so make the most of it.

So, mark your calendars, pack your green clothing, and get ready to experience the magic of St. Patrick’s Day in the Windy City.