St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago: River Dyeing, Parades & Local Tips
St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is one of those events that looks unreal until you see it in person. I’ve lived in Chicago for a few years now, and St. Patrick’s Day here still catches me off guard every single time. There’s something almost absurd about watching the Chicago River turn electric green while thousands of people in shamrock gear crowd the bridges at 9 AM, already three beers deep. It’s chaotic, it’s cold, and honestly? It’s one of my favorite days of the year.
If you’re planning to visit Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day 2026, or you’re a local who’s somehow never done the full experience, this is everything I actually know and not the sanitized tourism board version.
Why St. Patrick’s Day Is a Big Deal in Chicago
Chicago has been dyeing the river green since 1962. What started as a plumber’s union experiment (they were using dye to trace illegal sewage dumping and someone thought, “hey, what if we made the whole thing green?”) turned into one of the most recognizable St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the world.
But here’s what makes Chicago different from Boston or New York: everything happens within a tight radius. The river dyeing, the downtown parade and the packed bars, it’s all within a 10-block area.
The Irish-American population here is massive too. The South Side especially has deep roots, which is why the South Side Irish Parade feels less like a city event and more like a neighborhood family reunion that 300,000 people happen to attend.
Chicago River Dyeing: When, Where, and How to See It
The Chicago River will be dyed green on Saturday, March 14, 2026 which is the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day (which falls on Tuesday, March 17th).
When Does the River Turn Green?
The dyeing typically starts at 10:00 AM. The actual process takes about 45 minutes as boats move down the river releasing the dye. The dye is actually organic and orange in color and turns green into water. The green color stays vibrant for 4-5 hours and often stays until Sunday.
Pro Tip: The city doesn’t announce the exact start time in advance. If you want to catch the boats actually releasing the dye, get to your spot by 8:30 AM. Seriously. By 9:15, the good viewing spots are shoulder-to-shoulder.
Best Spots to Watch the River Dyeing (Ranked by a Local)
Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge)
The classic shot. You’ll see this angle in every news broadcast and Instagram post. It’s packed, loud, and worth doing once. Get there by 8 AM if you want bridge railing position.
Wacker Drive (Upper Level, between Michigan and State)
Slightly less insane than the bridge itself. You’re elevated, you can move around, and you still get great views. This is where I usually end up.
Chicago Riverwalk (Near the Confluence)
If you walk west past State Street on the Riverwalk, the crowds thin out. The view isn’t as iconic, but you can actually breathe and take photos without someone’s elbow in your frame.
Columbus Drive Bridge
Underrated. Fewer tourists, solid views, and you can escape to Millennium Park afterward.
Rooftop Bars (If You Plan Ahead)
Places like London House, Offshore at Navy Pier, or Cindy’s Rooftop sometimes do St. Patrick’s Day events. These require reservations weeks in advance and usually have a cover or minimum spend. But if you hate crowds and have the budget, it’s a different experience entirely.
River Dyeing Photography Tips
You don’t need a fancy camera; phones handle this well. A few things I’ve learned:
- Morning light is your friend. The sun hits the river nicely before noon.
- Shoot wide. The green river with the skyline behind it is the shot.
- Bring a portable charger. You’ll be outside for hours and your phone will die.
- Expect wind. It’s March in Chicago. Your hands will be cold. Consider touchscreen-compatible gloves.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades in Chicago
Downtown Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The downtown parade typically follows the river dyeing stepping off around 12:00 PM (noon).
Route: The parade runs down Columbus Drive, from Balbo Drive to Monroe Street, right along Grant Park.
You’ll see Irish dance schools, bagpipe bands, union groups, local politicians waving from convertibles, and a lot of families. It’s festive without being overwhelming, maybe 45 minutes to an hour total.
Best viewing: The west side of Columbus Drive gives you the parade with the skyline behind it. Bring a small folding chair if you have kids.
South Side Irish Parade 2026
This is the one Chicagoans actually care about. The South Side Irish Parade runs on Sunday, March 15, 2026 down Western Avenue in the Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood. It’s technically a “family-friendly” parade, and they’ve cracked down on the open drinking that made it infamous years ago but it still has an energy the downtown parade doesn’t.
Route: Western Avenue from 103rd Street to 115th Street.
If you want to experience Chicago’s Irish community rather than just watch a parade, this is it. People set up grills in their front yards. Kids run around in green tutus. It feels like a block party that stretches for a mile.
Northwest Side Irish Parade
Smaller, more low-key, runs through the Norwood Park neighborhood. Good option if you’re on the northwest side and don’t want to trek downtown or to Beverly.
Best Bars for St. Patrick’s Day
Bar crawling is the main event for a lot of people on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago. The river dyeing is cool, the parade is fun, but the bars? That’s where the energy is.
River North / Downtown (Tourist Central, But Fun)
- The Kerryman – Irish-owned, solid pints, gets absolutely slammed but has good energy
- Fado Irish Pub – Reliable, big space, they know what they’re doing on St. Patrick’s Day
- Lizzie McNeill’s – Right on the river, great location for the dyeing, expect a cover
- Pippin’s Tavern – Old-school, no-frills, less chaotic than the mega-bars
Lincoln Park / Lakeview
- The Irish Oak – Wrigleyville institution, live music, packed but worth it
- Galway Arms – More of a “real pub” vibe, less frat-party energy
- McGee’s – Yes, it’s the bar that inspired How I Met Your Mother. Yes, it’s touristy. It’s also fun on St. Patrick’s Day.
South Side (Where the Locals Go)
- Cork & Kerry – Beverly neighborhood, the real deal
- Lanigan’s Irish Pub – Neighborhood spot, less chaos
- Keegan’s Pub – Another Beverly staple
Bars to Avoid (My Opinion)
I won’t name names, but be wary of any bar charging $60+ cover with “unlimited drinks.” The math never works out, the drinks are weak, and you’ll spend half your time in line.
Where to Eat on St. Patrick’s Day Weekend
Irish Food (Or Close Enough)
- The Dearborn – Upscale, great brunch, make a reservation
- The Gage – Gastropub near Millennium Park, Guinness beef stew is legit
- Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro – North Center neighborhood, feels like someone’s Irish grandmother opened a restaurant
- Chief O’Neill’s – Northwest side, live Irish music, solid food
Brunch Spots (For the Morning After)
- Yolk – Multiple locations, handles crowds well, classic brunch
- Wildberry Pancakes – Expect a wait, but the pancakes are worth it
- Lou Mitchell’s – Old-school Chicago diner, cash only, no reservations, an experience
Late Night Eats
- Portillo’s – Chicago institution, Italian beef at 1 AM hits different
- Al’s Beef – Another Italian beef option, multiple locations
- Pequod’s Pizza – Caramelized crust deep dish, Lincoln Park location is open late
What to Wear for St. Patrick’s Day
March in Chicago is unpredictable. I’ve seen St. Patrick’s Days in the 50s and sunny, and I’ve seen it in the 20s with wind that cuts through you.
The Local Uniform:
- Layers. Always layers.
- A warm jacket that blocks wind (this is non-negotiable)
- Comfortable shoes you can walk miles in
- Something green (doesn’t have to be crazy — a scarf, a hat, a shirt under your jacket)
Gear Worth Buying:
For the parade and river viewing, you’ll be standing outside for hours. This is the small kit I actually bring every year — nothing fancy, just things that make the day easier.
👉 Shop the full St. Patrick’s Day gear list on Amazon
Getting Around Chicago on St. Patrick’s Day
Take the CTA. I cannot stress this enough. Driving downtown on St. Patrick’s Day is a mistake you only make once. Parking is impossible, streets get closed, and you’ll spend more time in traffic than actually enjoying the day.
The L (Elevated Train):
- Red Line and Brown Line get you to downtown/River North
- Green Line to the Loop
- Metra Rock Island Line to Beverly for the South Side parade
Rideshare:
Uber and Lyft work, but expect surge pricing from about 10 AM onward. If you’re going to use rideshare, either go early or wait until evening when things calm down.
Walking:
Once you’re downtown, walk. Everything is close. The river, the parade route, the bars—it’s all within a 15-20 minute walk.
Where to Stay for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago
Below are hotels I’ve personally researched or stayed near during past St. Patrick’s Day weekends. Prices fluctuate heavily during this weekend.
Best Hotels for the River Dyeing & Downtown Parade
If watching the river turn green is your priority, stay in the Loop or River North. You’ll be able to walk to everything.
Luxury (If You’re Going All Out):
- The Langham, Chicago – Right on the river. Some rooms have direct views of the dyeing. Expect $500+ per night on St. Patrick’s weekend, but you literally can’t get closer.
- London House Chicago – Rooftop bar with river views, prime location at Michigan and Wacker. They usually do a St. Patrick’s Day event.
- The Peninsula Chicago – Michigan Avenue, walking distance to everything, excellent service. Not cheap, but worth it for a special occasion.
Mid-Range (Best Value for Location):
- Hyatt Centric Chicago Magnificent Mile – Reliable, well-located, usually has reasonable rates if you book early.
- The Hoxton, Chicago – Fulton Market location, trendy vibe, good restaurant. A bit west of the action but easy Uber/walk.
- Freehand Chicago – Part hostel, part hotel. Private rooms are affordable and the bar (Broken Shaker) is excellent.
Budget-Friendly:
- HI Chicago Hostel – Dorm beds in the Loop for under $80. Not glamorous, but you’re not going to spend much time in your room anyway.
- Fieldhouse Jones – River North, no-frills but clean, great location for the price.
- Found Hotel Chicago – Basic rooms, but right in River North near the bars.
Best Hotels for the South Side Irish Parade
If you’re prioritizing the South Side parade, staying downtown means a 30-40 minute Metra ride. Consider these options:
- The Silversmith Hotel – Loop location, easy access to Metra stations
- Airbnb in Beverly/Morgan Park – Honestly, if you know someone on the South Side, crash with them. Hotels in Beverly are limited.
Hotel Booking Tips
- Book by February – Prices jump significantly in the last few weeks
- Check cancellation policies – Weather can be unpredictable; flexible booking helps
- Look at Fulton Market and West Loop – Slightly cheaper than River North, still easy to get downtown
- Avoid O’Hare airport hotels – Unless you’re flying out Sunday morning, it’s too far from everything
