St. Patrick’s Day is a festive occasion marked by green decorations, attire, and beverages. In a nod to its significant Irish population, Cook County, home to Chicago, elevates the celebration by dyeing the Chicago River green. This tradition, dating back over 60 years, is a highlight of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities, which also include parades honoring Irish heritage.
For those looking to partake in Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day events, here is what you need to know:
– The Chicago River will be dyed green on Saturday, March 15, starting at 10 a.m. The coloring process takes about 45 minutes and the vibrant hue typically lasts for a few hours to a couple of days.
– Following the river dyeing, the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off downtown around noon, featuring a theme centered on trades, technology, and education.
– On Sunday, the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade will commence at noon from 103rd and Western Avenue.
– For those unable to attend in person, ABC7 Chicago will broadcast the Saturday parade downtown, and USA TODAY will live stream the river dyeing.
St. Patrick’s Day, originally a religious observance honoring the saint who brought Christianity to Ireland, has evolved into a day of celebrating Irish culture worldwide. While 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.
Approximately 9.1% of U.S. residents claimed Irish heritage in 2023, underscoring the enduring popularity of this cultural celebration. Whether you don green attire, attend parades, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, St. Patrick’s Day is a time to revel in all things Irish.
