Have a shamrockin’ time.
There aren’t many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations that compare to Chicago’s. From the dyeing of the Chicago River to the numerous festivities around the city, there’s a pot of gold at the end of everyone’s rainbow.
Dyeing the Chicago River
Saturday, March 12
9:00 am
Chicago River (Columbus & Wacker)
Among the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the city, none is more well known than the notorious river dyeing. Join 400,000 others as 45 pounds of eco-friendly green dye is poured into the water below. The green hue won’t last all day, so make sure you’re punctual.
St. Patrick’s Day Downtown Parade
Saturday, March 12
12 pm
Columbus (between Balbo & Monroe)
Everyone is a little Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Don your green apparel, sing a ballad, drink a beer, and have a bit o’ fun at the 61st annual parade. The floats start at Columbus and work their way north through Grant Park beginning at noon.
South Side Irish Parade
Sunday, March 13
12 pm
Western Ave (between 103rd & 115th St.)
Join in with 150,000 other festivalgoers and line the streets of Beverly for the South Side parade. The fun-filled event focuses on family and of course, Irish heritage. Plus, it’s always a great excuse to drink at the local bars.
Northwest Side Irish Parade
Sunday, March 13
12 pm
Onahan School (6634 W. Raven St.)
Not many parades come equipped with after-parties, but this one does. The parade itself runs for about an hour, but the festivities afterwards go until 5 pm. You’ll find corned beef & cabbage, Eli’s Cheesecake, alcohol, live entertainment, and a big ol’ pint of cheer to top it off.