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Chicago St. Patrick's Day 2026: River Dyeing and Parades
3 months agoUS
Chicago is celebrating St. Patrick's Day with the annual dyeing of the Chicago River and multiple parades across the city. Here's what you need to know to enjoy the festivities.
Key Insights
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The Chicago River dyeing takes place on Saturday, March 14, starting at 10 a.m. near the Columbus Drive bridge.
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The dyeing process lasts about 45 minutes, with the most dramatic color change occurring in the first 30 minutes.
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The Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade steps off at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at Balbo and Columbus Drive.
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The South Side Irish Parade takes place on Sunday, March 15, beginning at noon at 103rd Street and Western Avenue.
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The Northwest Side Irish Parade also steps off at noon on Sunday, beginning at North Neola Avenue and West Raven Street.
In-Depth Analysis
The Chicago River dyeing is a tradition that dates back to 1962. Members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union use a vegetable-based dye that appears orange-red but turns green upon hitting the water. The river will be dyed green just west of the Columbus bridge to the east of Orleans before Wolf Point.
The Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade will run along Columbus Drive between Monroe Street and Balbo Drive. The theme for 2026 is "Faith, Peace, & Unity," inspired by Pope Leo XIV.
Several other events are happening throughout the weekend, including the Shamrock Crawl in Wrigleyville on Saturday and the South Side and Northwest Side Irish Parades on Sunday. Increased police presence is expected at all events.
How to Prepare:
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Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the river dyeing.
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Be aware of street closures and parking restrictions.
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Dress warmly, as temperatures are expected to be chilly.
Who This Affects Most:
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Residents and visitors in the Chicago area.
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Businesses along the parade routes and near the river.
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Commuters who may experience traffic delays due to street closures.
FAQs
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Q: When is the Chicago River dyeing?
Saturday, March 14, starting at 10 a.m.
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Q: Where is the best place to watch the river dyeing?
Along the river from Upper Wacker Drive, particularly between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive.
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Q: When is the Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade?
Saturday, March 14, stepping off at 12:15 p.m.
Key Takeaways
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The Chicago River dyeing and St. Patrick's Day parades are major events in Chicago.
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The river dyeing begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, near the Columbus Drive bridge.
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The downtown parade starts at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at Balbo and Columbus Drive.
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Additional parades will take place on the South and Northwest sides on Sunday, March 15.
Discussion
What are your favorite St. Patrick's Day traditions in Chicago? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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