Chicago’s signature and most unusual St. Patrick’s Day event is the beloved tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green. Although the river already has a greenish hue, a secret formula of environmentally friendly dye transforms the waves into a vivid green, worthy of St. Patrick’s Day.
This year’s St. Patrick’s Day river dyeing event splashes off on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 10:00 am. For the best views, arrive between 7 and 8 am and stand on the bridges between State and Columbus Drive or on the Chicago Riverwalk.
The dye only lasts for about five hours so be sure to snap photos before or after the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade.