Every year, on St. Patrick’s Day, the city of Chicago in the USA is transformed into a spectacular sight! The Chicago River, which runs through the city, is deliberately tinted bright green to celebrate the Irish holiday! And this year, the event takes place on Saturday, March 15! Find out how to attend the show!
This year’s river dyeing is scheduled for Saturday, March 15 at 10:00 am. The best vantage points are along Upper Wacker Drive and on the bridges spanning the river, offering stunning views of the dyeing process. Please note that the Chicago Riverwalk will be closed to the public during the event.
For those unable to attend in person, NBC Chicago will broadcast the event live on its website, mobile app, as well as on its YouTube channel.
Immerse yourself in the green magic of Chicago and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day like never before!
The origins of this practice date back to 1961, when a local plumber noticed that his white overalls were stained bright green. The stains came from a dye used to detect leaks in pipes. Stephen Bailey, then director of the Chicago Plumbers’ Union, had the idea of using this dye to dye the river in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. The first official dyeing took place in 1962, marking the start of an annual tradition.
Every year, the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130 is responsible for dyeing the river. From boats, they pour a special orange powder that turns green on contact with water. The exact formula of this dye remains confidential, but it is assured to be environmentally friendly. The bright green color generally lasts for several days, fading gradually over time.
Dyeing the river is just the beginning of the celebrations. On the same day, the 70ᵉ annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Columbus Drive, between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive, starting at noon. The parade, rich in color and music, draws enthusiastic crowds who come to celebrate Irish culture.
More news
