This blog post is all about how to spend St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago.

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated around the globe, but few places embrace it quite like Chicago.
The city’s history is deeply intertwined with Irish heritage, thanks in large part to immigration during the Great Famine (1845–1852).
Today, that legacy lives on in massive parades, the famously dyed-green Chicago River, and countless events honoring Irish culture.
If you’re planning to spend St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, here’s everything you need to know. From the basics of the holiday to all the top activities and festivities.
What is St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday observed every year on March 17th, honouring St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
Traditionally, it marks the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, but over the years, it’s also become a broader celebration of Irish heritage.
Think parades, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green.
When is St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago Celebrated?
Officially, St. Patrick’s Day falls on March 17th. In places like Chicago, though, you’ll find festivities stretched across days—even an entire week—around that date.
Parades, special events, and themed parties often happen on the weekend closest to March 17th, especially if the holiday falls midweek.
RELATED blog post to read: The Best Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day in 2025
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Why is St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago Celebrated?
Originally, this holiday was a feast day commemorating St. Patrick’s works in Ireland.
Over time, it evolved into a global festival celebrating Irish culture, identity, and traditions—from music and dance to food and folklore.
Everywhere you go, from Dublin to New York to Chicago, you’ll witness people celebrating all things Irish, whether they have Irish roots or not.
RELATED blog post to read: How to Spend St. Patrick’s Day in New York City
Why is it Celebrated in Chicago?
Chicago has long been a hub of Irish immigration in the United States. Many Irish families settled here in the 19th century, bringing their culture and traditions with them.
As a result, the city boasts a vibrant Irish American community—one that proudly hosts some of the biggest and boldest St. Patrick’s Day events in the country.
From the South Side Irish Parade to the dyeing of the river, Chicago pulls out all the stops to showcase its Irish pride.
What to Do for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago
Below is a list of the best things to do and how to spend St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago this year.
1. Watch the Dyeing of the Chicago River
A truly iconic Chicago tradition is the dyeing of the Chicago River. Early in the morning, a special eco-friendly dye is poured into the water near Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive, creating a vibrant emerald hue.
The colour lasts for only a few hours, so be sure to arrive on time to secure a good viewing spot along the riverwalk or on a nearby bridge.
Bring your camera—this spectacle is one of the most photographed events of the day!
2. Catch the Main St. Patrick’s Day Parade
After the river goes green, head to Columbus Drive between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive for the city’s main St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It’s one of the largest in the entire country!
The procession usually begins just after noon, so get there early to find a prime vantage point. You’ll see bagpipers, Irish step dancers, lively marching bands, and elaborate floats waving their Irish flags high.
Keep an eye out for The Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band, a Chicago favourite that’s been leading this parade since 1956.
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3. Explore the South Side Irish Parade (Beverly Neighbourhood)
Beyond the downtown parade, Chicago has multiple parades that reflect the city’s diverse and proud Irish communities.
One of the most notable is the South Side Irish Parade, typically taking place in the Beverly neighbourhood (along Western Avenue, in the 103rd to 115th Street vicinity).
This local-favourite event offers a more neighbourhood-oriented vibe, where families come together to celebrate with floats, music, and plenty of green attire.
If you want an authentic slice of Chicago’s Irish heritage, the South Side parade is well worth checking out.
4. Check Out the Northwest Side Irish Parade (Norwood Park Area)
Another major neighbourhood celebration is the Northwest Side Irish Parade, which often winds through the Norwood Park area (near Northwest Highway).
Expect a similar community feel, with local businesses, community groups, and proud Irish Americans showing off their best floats and performances.
It tends to be family-friendly, so it can be a great option if you’re looking for a slightly smaller crowd than the downtown bash.
5. Take a River Cruise
Once you’ve had your fill of parades, hop on a Chicago River cruise to see the city from a different angle—especially while it’s still tinted green.
Many tour operators offer St. Patrick’s Day-themed cruises, complete with Irish music, snacks, or even a fully stocked bar.
Enjoy the skyline views and the novelty of sailing down a shamrock-hued river.
6. Sample Irish Food (Don’t Miss The Kerryman!)
Chicago’s Irish pubs and eateries pull out all the stops for St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re craving a taste of the Emerald Isle, The Kerryman (in River North) is a local favourite for dishes like corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, or bangers and mash.
Pair your meal with a pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey for the full experience. Explore the city’s various pubs as many feature live Irish music sessions that’ll have you toe-tapping in no time.
7. Shamrock Shuffle
Runners, rejoice: the Shamrock Shuffle is a popular 8K run/walk that takes place around St Patrick’s Day weekend.
Dress in your finest green running gear (or a leprechaun hat if you’re feeling whimsical) and join thousands of fellow participants as you wind your way through downtown Chicago.
It’s a fun, high-energy way to get your cardio in before indulging in festive bites and drinks later on.
8. Irish American Heritage Center
For a deeper understanding of Irish culture and its influence on the city, head to the Irish American Heritage Center on the northwest side.
During St Patrick’s week, they typically host performances, educational workshops, and exhibits showcasing everything from Irish dance to Gaelic traditions.
It’s an excellent spot to learn more about the rich tapestry of Irish immigration and community in Chicago.
9. Shamrock’n the Block at Old St. Patrick’s Church
If you’re craving a family-friendly block party with a spirited vibe, Shamrock’n the Block at Old St. Patrick’s Church is a must.
This annual fest often includes food trucks, live music, Irish dancing, and fun activities for kids. It’s a warm, welcoming environment that celebrates both the cultural and community aspects of the holiday.
How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago
From the moment the Chicago River goes green to the final notes of bagpipers echoing down city streets, Chicago offers an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago experience.
Whether you’re marvelling at the massive downtown parade on Columbus Drive, heading to neighbourhood festivities like the South Side Irish Parade or the Northwest Side Irish Parade, feasting on Irish cuisine at The Kerryman, or dancing the jig at Shamrock’n the Block, you’ll find countless ways to embrace the luck o’ the Irish.
So throw on your best green getup, grab your camera for the dyeing of the river, and get ready for a day of celebration that perfectly blends Midwestern hospitality and Irish tradition.
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