Chicago St. Patrick’s Day 2025: Green River Dyeing in 45 Minutes with Crowds Exceeding 70K

Govind Tekale

What started in 1962 as a practical method to trace sewage leaks has evolved into Chicago's most photographed St. Patrick's Day spectacle, with the bright green hue lasting anywhere from hours to days

ScottMLiebenson(CC BY-SA 3.0)

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Cook County boasts the largest Irish American population in the nation according to 2023 Census data, explaining why Chicago's celebrations have grown increasingly elaborate over six decades.

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The best viewing spots are found along Upper Wacker Drive between State Street and Columbus Drive—but arrive early, as the Riverwalk will be closed during the event

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High winds are expected during Saturday's festivities, prompting the Office of Emergency Management to issue special alerts for riverside spectators

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How did 100 pounds of dye that once colored the river for over a week get reduced to today's 40-pound environmentally friendly formula?

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The 70th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade steps off at 12:15 p.m. following the river dyeing, proceeding north from Balbo Drive and Columbus Drive to Monroe Street.

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Security checkpoints with mandatory bag checks will be established at all parade entry points, accessible only from Jackson and Ida B. Wells Drive beginning at 11 a.m.

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Street closures will begin as early as 8 a.m. along Columbus Drive from Roosevelt Road to Wacker Drive, making public transportation the strongly recommended option for festival-goers.

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Chicago's emerald river tradition returns this Saturday, March 15, when boats will disperse vegetable-based dye at precisely 10 a.m., transforming the waterway for thousands of spectators.

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The Plumbers Union reduced dye quantity by 20% in 2023 to minimize environmental impact while maintaining the beloved tradition

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Mayor Richard J. Daley, son of an Irish immigrant, took office in 1955 with plans to clean up the Chicago River, unwittingly setting the stage for the future dyeing tradition.

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Beyond the downtown celebration, the South Side Irish Parade kicks off Sunday at noon from 103rd and Western Avenue, offering a more neighborhood-focused experience.

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Those unable to attend in person can watch live streams provided by NBC Chicago and Telemundo Chicago on their websites, apps, and streaming channels.

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The weekend offers additional celebrations with the Archer Avenue parade on Saturday and the Northwest Side Irish Parade on Sunday, spreading green festivities throughout Chicago's diverse neighborhoods.

Photo Source:William Murphy(CC BY-SA 2.0)St. Patrick's Day Parade

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