St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago | Chicago
              
              
              
              
              
                
                St. Patrick's Day
                
                Celebration
                
              
              
              
              
                Nothing can compare to St. Patrick's Day in Chicago. Irish pubs are full of revelers, and cultural celebration activities emerge in every corner of the city. The Chicago River shimmers with a brilliant emerald green. 
 The history of St. Patrick's Day in Chicago can be traced back more than 175 years. The Irish parade in Chicago has now become a long - standing tradition, first held in 1843. The dyeing of the Chicago River was added in 1962 and quickly became one of Chicago's most famous events. Besides the downtown celebrations, Chicago's proud Irish heritage is also fully displayed in our communities - from Beverly (a traditional Irish enclave) to the Irish - American Heritage Center near Albany Park. 
 On Saturday, March 15, 2025, the annual dyeing of the Chicago River is one of the world's most unique St. Patrick's Day celebration activities. Usually held on the Saturday before St. Patrick's Day (the same day as the downtown parade), this is a beloved tradition that dates back more than half a century. The best place to watch the green - dyed river is along the Chicago River between State and Columbus. The lower Riverwalk will be closed, but spectators can watch from Upper Wacker and many bridges. The green - dyeing of the river starts at 10:00 a.m. Arrive early, enjoy the view, and watch the environmentally - friendly dye flowing out of various boats. The bright green color only lasts a few hours, so be sure to catch a glimpse and take some pictures before heading to a local pub for green beer. 
 On the same day, the 70th Chicago St. Patrick's Day parade is one of Chicago's largest parades and the core of the city's unforgettable St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Catch the holiday parade on Columbus Drive between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive. Put on your best green clothes or a kilt and find a good spot before the parade starts at noon. You won't want to miss the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band, the city's premier Irish band. Since their first official parade in 1956, they have been leading the parade. During the three - hour celebration, you will also see many colorful floats flying the Irish flag high, Irish step - dancers, military bands, pipers, and more. 
 South Side Irish Parade: The 47th annual South Side Irish Parade is a long - standing tradition, a local, family - friendly celebration of Irish heritage. On Sunday, March 16, 2025, join thousands of revelers who gather to watch bands, dance troupes, and this year's newly - crowned parade queen. The parade marches south on Western Avenue between 103rd Street and 115th Street. After the parade, take some time to explore Chicago's Beverly community, one of the city's oldest Irish communities. Stop at one of the many community bars in the area and have a drink with the locals. 
 Northwest Side Irish Parade: Come and enjoy this fun community event that has been celebrating friends, family, and Irish heritage for more than 20 years. The Northwest Side Irish Parade starts at noon on Sunday, March 16, 2025, winding through near Norwood Park, starting from William J. Onahan School. 
 Irish - American Heritage Center: For St. Patrick's Day activities, head to the northwest side to visit the Irish - American Heritage Center. The center will hold a series of activities before St. Patrick's Day, including Irish singing workshops and concerts, Celtic art classes, etc.