There’s nothing quite like St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, when Irish taverns fill with revelers, cultural celebrations pop up in every corner of the city, and the Chicago River sparkles brilliant shades of emerald green.

The history of St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago goes back more than 175 years. Now a longstanding tradition, Chicago’s Irish parade was first held in 1843. The dyeing of the Chicago River was added in 1962, quickly becoming one of Chicago’s most famous events.

Along with the downtown festivities, Chicago’s proud Irish heritage is also on full display in our neighborhoods — from Beverly (a traditionally Irish enclave) to the Irish American Heritage Center near Albany Park.

Explore the top ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with events and things to do in Chicago.

Chicago River dyeing

A Seadog boat cruises on the green river

​​Saturday, March 15, 2025
The annual Chicago River dyeing is one of the most unique St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the world. Typically held the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day (the same day as the downtown parade), this bucket-list event is a beloved tradition that dates back over half a century. 

The best place to watch the green river dyeing is along the Chicago River between State and Columbus. The lower Riverwalk will be closed, but spectators can watch from Upper Wacker and the many bridges.

The green river dyeing starts at 10 a.m. Get there early for a good view and to watch the exo-friendly dye flowing from various boats. The brilliant green color only lasts a few hours, so be sure to catch a glimpse and snap some photos before heading off to a local tavern to enjoy some green beer.

Explore more: Discover where to watch the Chicago river dyeing with our guide to waterfront bars and restaurants.

Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade

St Patricks Day Parade Chicago

​​Saturday, March 15, 2025
The70th annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest in the country and the centerpiece of the city’s unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Catch the festive procession on Columbus Drive between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive.

Don your best green outfit or kilt and grab a good spot before the parade begins at noon. You won’t want to miss The Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band, the city’s premier Irish band, who have been leading the procession since the first official parade in 1956. You’ll alsosee plenty of colorful floats waving their Irish flags high, troops of Irish step dancers, marching bands, bagpipers, and more during the three-hour celebration. 

St. Patrick’s Day river cruises

A Seadog boat cruises on the green river

​​Saturday, March 15, 2025
Admire the emerald green river from the best seats in the house. Chicago’s river cruises offer a one-of-a-kind perspective of the day’s festivities. Watch the waters turn green, enjoy themed cocktails and Irish cuisine, hear live bagpipe music, and wave at the thousands of spectators lining the river’s banks.

St. Patrick’s Day neighborhood events

A young boy playing a flute marches in theannual St. Patrick's Day parade

South Side Irish Parade
A long-time tradition, the 47th annual South Side Irish Parade is a homegrown, family-friendly celebration of Irish heritage. Join the thousands of fellow revelers on Sunday, March 16, 2025 who gather to watch the bands, dance troupes, and this year’s newly crowned parade queen. The parade marches south on Western Avenue between 103rd and 115th Streets. 

After the parade, take some time to explore Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood, one of the city’s longest-standing Irish communities. Stop inside one of the area’s many neighborhood bars to raise a pint with the locals.

Northwest Side Irish Parade
Come enjoy this fun community event that has been celebrating friends, family, and Irish heritage for more than 20 years. The Northwest Side Irish Parade kicks off at noon on Sunday, March 16, 2025 and winds through the Norwood Park neighborhood, beginning at William J. Onahan School.  

St. Patrick’s Day events at the Irish American Heritage Center
Head to the northwest side to visit the Irish American Heritage Center, which will be hosting an array of events leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, including an Irish singing workshop and concert, a Celtic art class, and more.

Shamrock’n the Block at Old St. Patrick’s Church
This West Loop church is hosting its annual pop-up Irish pub, Shamrock’n the Block, with live entertainment, food, a raffle, and a heated tent beer garden. This all-ages event will also feature activities for kids.

Festive food and drink specials

​​Saturday, March 15, 2025
Looking for some corned beef and cabbage? How about the perfect pint of Guinness or a boozy Shamrock Shake? Maybe you’re searching for a spot to grab a bite while watching the Chicago River dyeing? Well, you’re in the right place!

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at one of the many restaurants and bars in the city that will be featuring an array of traditional fare and creative twists on classics. Thanks to Chicago’s immigrant roots and robust Irish community, finding Irish fare is easy. The city’s restaurants always go all out with the food, and of course, drink specials. 

Check out our round-up of festive St. Patrick’s Day food and drink specials all around Chicago.