Chicago Gears Up for Emerald Celebrations: River Dyeing and Parades Mark St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day, a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage, is just around the corner, and Chicago, a city with a significant Irish-American population, is ready to paint the town green – literally. While green beer and festive attire are common sights around the world on this day, Chicago takes the festivities to a whole new level with its annual tradition of dyeing the Chicago River a vibrant emerald hue. This spectacle, coupled with not one, but two parades, makes Chicago a prime destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit.

With Cook County, where Chicago is located, boasting the largest Irish American population in the nation according to the latest Census data, the city’s dedication to celebrating its Irish roots is particularly pronounced. The tradition of dyeing the river green has been going strong for over six decades, solidifying its place as a beloved and iconic part of Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities. It’s a visual spectacle that draws crowds from near and far, transforming the city’s waterways into a flowing testament to Irish pride.

The river dyeing is not just a spontaneous act of whimsy; it’s a carefully planned event that involves a special dye formula that is both environmentally safe and visually stunning. The secret recipe, closely guarded by the Chicago Plumbers Local 130, is said to be based on a vegetable dye, ensuring that the river’s ecosystem is not harmed in the process. The vibrant green color, which lasts for several hours, and sometimes even a couple of days, provides a breathtaking backdrop for the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations that follow.

This year, the Chicago River will be transformed into an emerald river on Saturday, March 15th. The dyeing process will commence at 10 a.m. and is expected to last approximately 45 minutes. The best vantage points to witness this transformation are along the riverwalk between State Street and Columbus Drive, offering unobstructed views of the spectacle. Remember to arrive early to secure a good spot as the area tends to get crowded quickly.

Following the river dyeing, the 70th Annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off downtown around noon. The parade route will begin at Columbus Drive and Balbo, heading north through the heart of the city. This year’s theme, "Trades, Technology, and Education," pays homage to the diverse industries and institutions that contribute to Chicago’s vibrant economy and intellectual landscape. Expect to see elaborate floats, marching bands, traditional Irish dancers, and of course, plenty of green attire on display. ABC7 Chicago will be broadcasting the downtown parade, allowing those who cannot attend in person to still partake in the festivities. USA TODAY will also be live streaming the Chicago River dyeing on Saturday providing a virtual front-row seat to the spectacle.

But the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Chicago don’t end on Saturday. On Sunday, the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take center stage, commencing at noon from 103rd and Western Avenue. This parade, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong community spirit, showcases the rich Irish heritage of Chicago’s South Side. It features local schools, community groups, and Irish organizations, making it a truly authentic and heartwarming celebration.

While St. Patrick’s Day is often associated with jovial celebrations and green-themed festivities, it’s important to remember the holiday’s origins. St. Patrick’s Day originally began as a religious observance honoring Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland who is credited with bringing Christianity to the country in the 5th century. March 17th, believed to be the day of his death, has evolved over the centuries into a cultural celebration that embraces all things Irish.

Today, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated around the world, with parades, festivals, and cultural events taking place in numerous countries. Approximately 9.1% of U.S. residents claimed Irish ancestry in 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, highlighting the significant influence of Irish culture in the United States.

While it is not a federal holiday in the U.S., St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland, marking the start of the tourist season. In the United States, the holiday is often celebrated with gatherings at pubs and bars, where revelers don green attire, beads, and glasses. From shamrock-themed decorations to traditional Irish music and dance, St. Patrick’s Day offers a chance to celebrate Irish heritage and enjoy a day of festive camaraderie.

Whether you’re Irish or simply Irish at heart, Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations offer an unforgettable experience. From the mesmerizing spectacle of the green river to the vibrant parades and the warm community spirit, the city truly embraces the spirit of the holiday. So, put on your greenest attire, gather your friends and family, and head to Chicago for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration that you won’t soon forget. And don’t forget to check out the 2025 holiday schedule for a full list of dates for Easter, Memorial Day, federal holidays and more, to plan future celebrations.