St. Patrick’s Day 2024: Chicago River dying, parade and more
[Video from 2019 Chicago River dyeing]
CHICAGO — It’s that time of year again, Shamrock Shakes, luck of the Irish and the most exciting holiday in the Chicagoland area.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is back for its 79th year with the parade kicking off at Saturday March 16 at 12:15 p.m.
The special event is proudly sponsored by Chicago’s very own plumber’s union, Plumbers Local 130 UA.
The theme of this year’s parade is ‘Mental Health is Essential,’ with President and CEO of Mado management, LP, Peter O’Brien as the Grand Marshall and Mr. Patrick Kennedy with The Kennedy Forum as the Guest of Honor.
The three-hour celebration is one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country and will feature Irish step dancers, floats, bagpipers, marching bands and much more.
When does do they dye the river green?
Start time: March 16 at 10 a.m.
Where: Chicago River between Columbus Drive and Orleans Street.
Have you ever wondered how they turn the river green? Here’s where you can find out.
The best place to see the river dyeing is on Upper Wacker Drive between Columbus Drive and Wabash Avenue. Organizers also say the Chicago Riverwalk, between Columbus Drive and State Street is another good viewing location.
How does the Chicago River turn green for St. Patrick’s Day?
When did the tradition start?
The tradition started in 1962 when a plumber used an orange dye to detect pollution in the river and noticed it turned his overalls green. They then used it to dye the river — and the tradition was born, according to Secret Chicago.
Chose Chicago says the environmentally-friendly dye remains a closely kept secret.
Other St. Paddy’s events:
Northwest Side Irish Parade
When: Sunday, March 17 at 12 p.m.
Where: Beginning at William J. Onahan School running south on Neola Avenue to Northwest Highway then heading north on Northwest Highway up to Harlem Avenue.
South Side Irish Parade
When: Sunday, march 17 at 12 p.m.
Where: South on Western Avenue between 103rd and 115th Streets.
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