Taking a trip to Ireland can be costly, especially if you only have a few days to get away. So when Saint Patrick’s Day weekend comes around, where should you go? Chicago, of course!
I’ve been told that people typically think of Boston when they consider celebrating Saint Patty’s Day in the U.S. However, having lived in Chicago for over almost 25 years now, I firmly believe that there is no better place to join in American-Irish celebrations than in the Windy City. There are plenty of activities here where you can get your green on and let out a big, “Slainte!”
Dyeing of the Chicago River
Chicago has been dyeing its river green for over 40 years. It all started when a plumber was approached and asked how his white coveralls were stained the perfect shade of Irish green. Since that day in 1961, an orange-colored dye is thrown into the river, dissolves and turns it a bright green. This year, the dyeing of the Chicago River will occur on Saturday, March 14 at 10:45 a.m. The best view of the dye job can be seen on the east side of the bridge at Columbus Drive.
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
Once the Chicago River has been dyed, it’s time to kick off Patty’s Day weekend with the official Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Chicago! If the holiday does not fall on the weekend, the parade is held before Saint Patrick’s Day so that everyone can join in the festivities. Parents won’t have to pull their children out of school and adults won’t have to take the day off of work. This year, the parade starts right after the dyeing of the river on Saturday, March 14 at noon and runs from Balbo to Monroe on Columbus Drive.
South Side Irish Parade
Don’t stop celebrating just yet! The south side of Chicago has its own St. Patrick’s Day celebration, as well. Held on the Sunday before Saint Patrick’s Day, the South Side Irish Parade is one of the most anticipated events on the South Side. This year, the parade falls on Sunday, March 15 and runs from 104th down Western Ave to 111th Street. Families typically line up on the east side of the street, while those (of age) who crave a pint of Guinness spend time on the west side, near all of the Irish bars.
When Saint Patrick’s Day weekend comes up, grab your suitcase and head to Chicago for some of the finest Irish celebrations in the world! You’ll have a whole weekend of lucky charms, corned beef, Guinness and more
And here’s a Twitter tip I discovered via @SouthwestAir a few weeks ago… If you a fly home via Southwest Airlines on Tuesday, March 17 (Saint Patrick’s Day), you’ll get a free beer. Slainte!
