Here’s When Chicago Dyes River Green For St. Patrick’s Day 2025

Ready to be a part of one of Chicago's most popular holiday celebrations?  Watch as the Chicago River gets dyed green for St. Patrick's Day!

Every year I've make it my goal to visit Chicago for all the St. Patrick's Day festivities and bar hopping, but when the time comes, I realize the crowds are going to be shoulder-to-shoulder.  So, can someone please experience the river dyeing for me?!

Here's When Chicago Dyes River Green For St. Patrick's Day 2025

Get your green on down at the Chicago River on Saturday, March 15th!

It's totally free to watch the river get dyed green at 10AM. If you want the best views, post up at Upper Wacker Drive.  I'm telling you, prime views of the river, great spots to take photos, and celebrate the moment with friends.

Don't miss the parade at 12:30pm, too!

"Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade kicks off at 12:30 p.m. along Columbus Drive, starting at Balbo Drive and heading north toward Monroe Drive. This parade features colorful floats, Irish dancers, marching bands, bagpipers, and community organizations. Politicians, firefighters, police officers, and members of Irish heritage groups proudly march while the crowd cheers and waves Irish flags." [bounce]

After the river dyeing and parade, you can go on pub crawls, grab a bite to eat around the city, and go on river cruises if you're feeling adventurous.  Tons to experience and make a day of it in the Windy City.

By the way, the green river will last for hours, giving you plenty of time to get a glimpse of it!  Don’t miss out on this Chicago tradition—mark your calendars for March 15th and get ready to see the city turn green!