One of Chicago’s most iconic events is now just hours away: The famous Chicago River dyeing for St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Chicago also include the South Side Irish Parade, which officials say is the largest-community based St. Patrick’s Day Parade outside of Dublin, Ireland.
Those attending St. Patrick’s Day events in Chicago may see a larger than normal police presence, the city’s office of Emergency Management and Communications said.
“Similar to previous years, the Chicago Police Department will have an increased police presence at all St. Patrick’s Day events across the city, including at the Chicago River Dyeing, the downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the Northwest Side Irish Parade and the South Side Irish Parade,” a release from the agency said. “CPD has also been working with fellow City agencies and public safety partners to ensure sufficient resources are in place during these celebrations.”
When is the Chicago River dyeing?
The dyeing of the Chicago River takes place Saturday, March 14. It typically gets underway about 10 a.m., though the process takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
City officials suggest spectators arrive early to secure a good view.
Temperatures during the river dye will be chilly, in the 30s.
Where exactly does the Chicago River dyeing take place?
The river will be dyed green just west of the Columbus bridge to the east of Orleans before Wolf Point, the city said.
“During the dyeing of the river, bridges will be closed to spectators, however, the Columbus, LaSalle and Orleans bridges will remain open for vehicular/pedestrian traffic,” the city advised.
As part of the event, the Chicago Riverwalk will be closed from 11 p.m. on Friday, March 13, through the day on Saturday, March 14 until 6 a.m. on Sunday, March 15.
“The river dyeing can be viewed along the river from Upper Wacker Drive,” the city noted.”
While the river dye can be seen from several locations in the city, there are some spots that are better than others. One of the best spots to watch is between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive.
How does it work?
During the river dyeing, members of the Chicago Plumbers Union – situated in boats – use a concoction that sprays dye out of plumbing pipes and spout pumps,.
The mysterious mixture actually comes out orange, but the color changes to green once the dye sets in.
The impeccable brilliant green only lasts for a few hours, with Choose Chicago explaining the water will retain a shade of green after the initial dyeing, but it will slowly fade over time.
In years past, the river has remained green for days.
How to stream the Chicago River Dye live
NBC Chicago will stream the river dye live on our streaming channels, including on Peacock, Roku and Pluto.
When is the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade?
Also on Saturday, March 14, is the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
The parade, which steps off at 12:15 p.m. at Balbo and Columbus Drive, heading north to Monroe Street. It will feature bagpipers, dancers, green floats and more traveling down Columbus Drive. The theme of this year’s parade is Faith, Peace and Unity.
Street closures for the parade will go into effect at 8 a.m., the city said.
When is the South Side Irish Parade?
A family-friendly tradition for more than 40 years and counting, the South Side Irish Parade will take place on Sunday, March 15.
As in past years, it will begin at noon from West 103rd Street and Western Avenue in Chicago’s Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood.
Parking restrictions will be in place from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. the city said.
When is the Northwest Side Irish Parade?
The Northwest Side Irish Parade, billed as a celebration of faith, family and heritage, also steps off at noon on Sunday.
The route begins at North Neola Avenue and West Raven Street then proceeds along North Northwest Highway before ending at Harlem Avenue.
