The Best Places to Be on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago
Channel the spirit of the Irish, this St. Patrick’s Day, as Chicago turns green! Whether you’re of Irish heritage or not, come out and celebrate this most beloved tradition with festive parades and events that will showcase the best of a proud, Irish culture along with Chicago’s awesome ability to put on a grand spectacle!
St. Patrick’s Day Events Around Town
In Chicago, there’s no wrong way to celebrate St. Pat’s. Whether you’re ready to dance a jig to the tune of bagpipes, watch the incredible stamina of the Irish dancers, ooh and ahh at the elaborate parades, throw back a Guinness at the local Irish pub, or simply relax by a river that runs green, this day of observation for the Irish culture welcomes absolutely everyone. Just look at some of the exciting events going on around town, but – don’t forget to wear green!
Dyeing of the Chicago River
When: Saturday March 11
Where: Chicago River at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, Loop
Before the big, St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins, the long-standing Chicago tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green will paint the murky waters bright green for the entire day of fun and fest! Be sure to come down early, if you want to get a good view, as the Journeymen Plumbers’ Local Union 130 create this urban recreation of the Emerald Isle.
Leprechaun Leap
When: Saturday March 11
Where: Lincoln Park, Lincoln Park
Do you need to burn off some energy (or a few extra calories to make room for a night on the town) before all of the big festivities start? Come out for the annual Leprechaun Leap. This St. Paddy’s Day 5K and 8K Run not only showcases some of the craziest, green attire and costumes, but it also benefits a great cause, with proceeds going to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Shoreline Sightseeing St. Patrick’s Day Cruise
When: Saturday March 11
Where: Navy Pier, Streeterville
Take advantage of the unusually dyed Chicago River before the St. Patrick’s Day parade with a cruise down the clover-colored waters. The 10th annual St. Patrick’s Day Lunch Cruise will take you all through the three Chicago River branches and feature a delicious, Irish-style buffet, as well as a full-service bar.
Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade
When: Saturday March 11
Where: Columbus Dr., East Garfield Park
With the waters painted green, it’s time for the city to celebrate with an exciting, fun-filled homage to the Irish with the big St. Patrick’s Day Parade. There will be bagpipes, drum corps, dancers and all sorts of other performers marching the streets and filling the air with merriment and cheer! Trust us, this is one parade you won’t want to miss!
St. Patrick’s Festival
When: Saturday March 11
Where: Irish American Heritage Center, Irving Park
What’s a festival without food? Come out for the family-friendly, St. Patrick’s Festival, after the grand parade, for a taste of some traditional Irish foods, lots of dancing and live music.
Celebrate the Irish spirit Chicago-style! We can’t wait to see you all dressed in your greenest best and hope everyone has a safe, fun-filled St. Patrick’s Day!
