St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, IL 2026: Events and Activities Guide

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago IL, or St. Paddy’s day, is a day of joyful celebration in Chicago, Illinois where we celebrate the Irish, past and present, who have helped make the city of Chicago what it is today. And on this day, everyone is Irish! No matter your ancestry. Everywhere you look, from the Chicago river, to the beer in the pubs, to every lad and lassie you meet throughout the day- The only acceptable color is green! And the shamrock is the official symbol for the day. No matter the temperature, St. Patrick’s day in Chicago, IL has the city in full bloom. Keep reading to learn about the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago, where to watch the river turn green, my favorite list of pubs, and where you can hear Irish bag pipers to make your day even more festive and fun.

Chicago’s Most Beloved Tradition: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, IL

Spending time in Chicago for St Patrick’s Day is an event that you must experience at least once in your lifetime. People come out in droves just to catch a glimpse of the Chicago River being dyed a vibrant shade of green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. This is one of Chicago’s most beloved traditions! The stunning architecture along the Chicago River is already a sight to behold. But I must say that the skyscrapers seem to stand just a bit taller in the presence of the Emerald Green River on St. Patrick’s Day.

Watching the Chicago River turn green is truly special, but celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is so much more than that. When I head out my door every year, there is a sparkly, friendly, spontaneous feeling in the air. Anything feels possible. And just like the Irish hoped for back in the 18th century- St. Patrick’s Day brings people together. It’s the kind of day where strangers become friends, and you never quite know where the luck of the Irish will bring you.

When does Chicago Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?

Chicago celebrates St. Patrick’s day on March 17th, but there are plenty of celebrations before then as well. The largest St. Patrick’s day celebration in Chicago is on the Saturday that is closest to March 17th. This year, the City will celebrate with the dyeing of the Chicago River, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and a city wide celebration at most bars and restaurants on Saturday March 14th.

Planning ahead? I recommend looking at the City of Chicago website to confirm what Saturday in March the city will hold their celebration, because every year will be different.

The History of St. Patrick’s day

So who is St. Patrick, and why do we celebrate him? Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, and he was a Christian missionary. There are many legends associated with St. Patrick- one of which is that he used the 3-leaf shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. They also say he drove the snakes out of Ireland! Legend also says that March 17th marks the day of his death.

And so lads and lassies, please listen to me tale…on March 17th, we celebrate St. Patrick for everything he was, and all of the legends that will forever surround him. And what started as a religious feast day in Ireland has now become a celebration of Irish culture and heritage all over the world.

Looking to see music from an Irish Pipe Band? Keep reading for where to see the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band in and around Chicago.

Irish Immigrants in the USA

Chicago has a large Irish population, but they are not the only city in the United States with a rich Irish history. The Irish have been immigrating to the United States since the 1600’s. In 1737, Boston was the first city in America to hold a parade to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day, followed by New York in 1762. These celebrations began as a way for the Irish Immigrants in the USA to honor their Irish heritage while also strengthening community bonds in their new country.

And while Chicago’s Irish Parade dates back to 1843, Chicago is perhaps most well-known for dyeing the river emerald green. Keep reading for details on where to watch the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and where to witness the Chicago River Turn Green. I will also admit to a few lessons I’ve learned over the years.

The First Year that the Chicago River was Dyed Green

In true St. Patrick’s Day fashion, the story goes that back in 1961, Stephen Baily at the Plumbers Union of Chicago noticed that the dye plumbers use to track sewage leaks was dying clothes to a bright shade of green. With that and a bit of Irish inspiration, The Plumbers Union of Chicago first dyed the river green on March 17, 1962. Every year since then, the The Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 continues this great Chicago tradition to honor the Irish, their history, and their traditions.

Transportation: Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day

If you are heading downtown to the Chicago River for the festivities, keep in mind that there will be thousands of people looking to do the same thing as you. If you live in a neighborhood of Chicago, I recommend using public transit to get downtown for the parade and river dyeing. Driving in downtown Chicago is always a challenge, but because of the large amount of people out and about for St. Paddy’s day, public transit and walking are the best way to go.

Uber and Lyft

If you decide to drive or call an Uber or Lyft, I recommend patience! Also be mindful that surge pricing on ride share apps tend to come along with a busy day in a big city. So if you are going to call a car, you’ll need to accept the price tag if you want to get home quickly and safely.

Where to Stay in Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day

If you are traveling to Chicago from another city, make sure to stay downtown. If I were you, I would stay near the Chicago River and check to see if any hotels are hosting River Dying parties from their rooftop. (see below for a list of Riverfront events). This would be ideal!

If you live in the Chicago suburbs, booking a hotel is a great option for you as well. Make it a staycation! This way you won’t have to worry about getting around the day of. As I mentioned, transportation can definitely be tricky.

Top Things to Do in Chicago

Traveling to Chicago or just looking for Tips on what to do? Read my full guide here for my Top Things to Do in Chicago

Spot Hero and Public Transit: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago IL

If you live in the Chicago suburbs, you could also use Spot Hero to find a parking spot beforehand. I recommend not parking in the center of downtown, but about a half mile or so away from the river so you don’t hit the crowds. The West Loop is also a great area to reserve a parking spot ahead of time. It’s about a mile away from the river but there are plenty of places to have some fun after you watch the river turn green.

But in all honesty, if I did not live in the city, I would take the Metra train downtown. They have plenty of weekend trains. That way you don’t have to worry about driving- Especially if you will be enjoying the merriment of the day. The Ogilve Metra Station and Union Station are also conveniently located to all of the St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago Festivities.

What to Wear: Chicago for St Patrick’s Day

So what should you wear on Saint Patrick’s day? I highly recommend that you wear Green! And please- have fun with your outfit. Be festive! Put sparkly green shamrock stickers on your face and wear a green top hat and bow tie. Or then again you can do nothing at all…but where is the fun in that?

I have worn shamrock bow ties, neck ties, and sparkly green crowns. But most years, I make sure to put on my favorite green shirt and keep my eyes open for the artists that walk into bars to paint shamrock’s on people’s faces.

The Weather in Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day

Ah yes. The Weather in Chicago. That’s a funny topic. Because in Chicago, the weather is notorious for going from 20 degrees Fahrenheit one week, to 50 degrees the next…in the middle of winter. Chicago weather is as unpredictable as 60 ten year olds in a classroom when there’s a full moon! You never really know what’s going to happen.

With that being said, St. Patrick’s day in Chicago could be beautiful! Last year I walked out of the house with a light jacket- just in case. It was a gorgeous day and quite warm for March. But the year before I had a winter coat on.

The “Windy City”

My advice is to make sure to check the weather and make sure to take into account Chicago’s famous wind. We are called the “Windy City” for a couple different reasons, and the brutal wind is one of them! The wind in Chicago can make things feel at least 5-10 degrees colder than what the temperature says. What will it be like this year? Stay tuned! Your guess is as good as mine.

Events and Activities for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, IL

The Music of The Irish, and St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

As you may already know, I am a teacher and band director in the Chicagoland area. Music is such an important part of my life, and I seek out live music whenever I can. So on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, I am always on the lookout for the sounds of Ireland. Live music just makes me so happy!

From the drone of the bagpipes, to the joyous melody of a fiddle and an Irish flute. These sounds are unmistakeable, and create a feeling of warmth and joy that make me feel like I’m back in Dublin- or better yet- enjoying a moment in the Irish Countryside.

In Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day, you may get lucky and happen upon a bagpiper or two at one of the St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations I have listed below. Or you can seek out the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band.

The Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band

The Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band was founded in 1926 in Chicago by Tommie Ryan. Their mission was to preserve traditional Irish music, share it with the community, and create a space for Irish immigrants in Chicago.

Over the last 100 years, the Rovers have continued this mission of bringing the community together through music and have played for everyone from U.S. Presidents and Popes, to playing alongside the Lt. Dan Band to benefit the Gary Sinise Veterans Foundation. The Rovers are comprised of 80 pipers, drummers, and color guard members, including Robby, who has been playing the bagpipes for the Rovers every since he was a Sophomore in high school.

The Shannon Rover’s St. Paddy’s Day Performance Schedule

So where can you hear the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band perform? For starters, the Rovers have been leading the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade since 1956. This year will be no different, except they will be the guests of honor! This year the Rovers are celebrating their 100th year of honoring their own Irish heritage and traditions through music and community.

The Chicago St Patrick’s Day Parade begins at 12:30pm on Saturday March 14th. The route is on Columbus Dr. in Chicago from Balbo to Monroe.

Looking for a Parade on Sunday March 15th? The Southside Irish Parade is another parade worth mentioning in the Chicagoland area. Step off is at Noon from 103rd and Western Avenue in Chicago’s Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood. While this is not close to downtown Chicago, The Southside Irish Parade is a legendary celebration in the Chicagoland area.

Follow the “Spirit of the Gael”

I also have it on good authority that the Shannon Rovers will be playing throughout the city of Chicago on Saturday March 14th! The Rovers will be playing at Gibsons, Lizzie’s O’Neil’s, Timothy O’Tooles, Guinness Open Gate, Industry Ales, Reservoir, The Hyatt, and as I have been told “Post to Pillar and anywhere the spirit of the Gael can be found.”

Looking to start celebrating St. Patrick’s Day early? The Rovers are already starting to make the rounds in the city and the suburbs. Click here to see their Pre-St. Paddy’s Weekend Schedule. Check back in next week as well- I’ll make sure to post more dates and locations as soon as I get my hands on them!

My Irish Wish

I cannot wait to hear the Shannon Rovers play in person so I too can experience the spirit of the Irish! If only one of my Irish wishes come true this year, It will be to see them play on Saturday March 14th when Chicago celebrates St. Patrick’s Day.

Where to see the Chicago river dyed green: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago IL

The Chicago River will be dyed Green on Saturday, March 14th at 10am. Seeing the river dyed green is just plain fun. And I’ll say it again. All of the skyscrapers along the river are even more beautiful against a bright shade of green. And on a sunny day? Nothing compares. Heck even on a gray day it’s still a joyous sight to see.

Where NOT to watch

If you decide to go to the city to see the Chicago river dyed emerald green, it’s important that you have a plan. Last year, I stood in the wrong place and boy was it a disappointment. I found out the hard way that the entire river is not dyed green. Luckily, all I had to do was walk to a different location. However, if I had just done my research ahead of time, I would’ve known not to stand on the Lake Street Bridge where the river curves east. The dyeing of the river starts closer to the Orleans Street Bridge.

Where will the Chicago River turn green?

The Chicago River, which runs along Wacker Drive, will primarily turn green between the Orleans Street Bridge and the Columbus Street Bridge. With that being said, the river will keep it’s vibrant green color for at least the rest of the day! You don’t have to be there when it happens in the morning. Technically, they say the river stays green for 3 days, but the best viewing experience will be on the day of the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Celebration which is Saturday, March 14, 2026.

Learn from my Mistakes

Another thing I learned last year is that they have a large police presence downtown for safety purposes- which is wonderful! I was trying to meet up with my friend Elyse and her dog Frank so we could see the river dyed green together. Elyse was on the north side near the Merchandise Mart, and I was on the south side of the river.

All we had to do was cross the bridge! But unfortunately, the Chicago Police Department blocks off all access to the bridges that cross the Chicago river while the river is being dyed. It was definitely a “I wish I had done my research!” moment, but either way I do know that safety in our city is very important. Many thanks to my friend Jessica, and the rest of the CPD for keeping us safe!

The Best Places to Witness the Chicago River turn Emerald Green

Now that I told you what NOT to do, let’s talk about the best places to watch the river turn a vibrant shade of green:

Watch the Chicago River Turn Green From Above

One year, my friend Lisa invited me to watch the river turn green from her husband’s office building along the river. And wow was it amazing! To see Chicago from above and in all its green glory was a vision that I still carry with me to this day. Plus, there were no crowds, and no line for the bathroom. So, if you find yourself invited to someone’s office building for a viewing, I highly recommend taking them up on it.

With that being said, there are many hotels and the iconic Marina Towers that are along the river. Many people throw house parties on the day of Chicago’s St. Patrick’s day celebration. If you get invited by someone you know, I say go in a heartbeat!

But if you are like me with no friend who lives along the river, not to worry. I have many other options for you. Keep reading for a list of River Dyeing parties, and River Cruises that will take you up close and personal to the Chicago River.

Do you *need* to purchase tickets to an event?

Do you need to purchase tickets to an event? No. It’s safe to say that most bars in the city of Chicago will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in their own way. It just depends what you are looking for and how adventurous you are feeling! Sometimes the best thing you can do is walk down the street to eat, drink and be merry at the closest bar in your neighborhood. Trust that you’re going to have a great time wherever you go.

Endless Possibilities: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, IL

Personally, I love doing different things every St. Patrick’s Day. I love celebrating at Parlor or Black Barrel Tavern in the West Loop. Or I love walking to the river in the morning and heading to a house party afterwards. In the future, I would love to go to a restaurant party to see the Chicago River turn green. I would also love to see the river dyed green from a boat! Now that would be special. More on that below. That’s the thing about Chicago. It’s such a big city. The options are endless!

St. Patrick’s Day Boat Experiences

As I was saying, I would LOVE to go on a boat ride in Chicago to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. It’s definitely on my bucket list! Keep reading and take notes, because there are tickets still available for boating experiences on the Chicago River. Unfortunately, some are already sold out, but sound like the perfect experience if you plan ahead for next year.

Boating Options for 2026

St. Patrick’s Day Clover Cruise-Chicago’s First Lady: The last I checked, there were still tickets available for this Clover River Cruise on Chicago’s First Lady! Your ticket includes live music on departure, a corned beef sandwich box, 2 drink tickets, and a festive atmosphere.

Sea Dog City Cruises: Tickets are still available for this boating excursion on St. Patrick’s Day with many times slots still available. Tickets are expensive for a 30 minute boat ride that is BYOB, but if boating along the green Chicago River is a must for you this year, then you are in luck! Tickets available on their website.

The Chicago Boat Company-Private Boat Charters: Head on over to the Chicago Boat Company’s Website to explore their offerings on St. Patrick’s Day. From a “Heated Duffy” boat, to a cycle boat, you have options for enjoying St. Patrick’s Day on the Chicago River.

The Four Seasons Emerald River Cruise:

As of March 1, there are tickets still available for an intimate, and quite festive 3-hour cruise along the Chicago River while it is dyed green for St. Patrick’s day. Personally, I love that The Four Seasons offers an experience like this! I say book now and enjoy what will no doubt be a luxurious and celebratory experience.

Boating Options for next year

St. Patrick’s Day River Cruise Boat Party: This 90 minute boating event on March 14th in Chicago is put on by the Chicago Sport and Social Club, and it sounds like a blast. Your ticket includes Food, Drink, and a trip along the newly dyed Chicago River. Afterwards, you can keep the party going with free entry into the Island Party Hut Riverwalk party. And while this boating excursion is sold out, I’d be on the lookout to grab a ticket for next year!

The Wendella Boats St. Patrick’s Day Cruise: This 2 hour cruise will give you a front row seat to the river dyeing along with live music, and 3 drink tickets. While this cruise is sold out, it looks like tickets will go on sale for next year on January 1st, 2027.

Events and Activities for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, IL

Restaurants, Bars, and Hotels: St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago IL

Here is a list of restaurants, bars, and hotels along the river that host events for the dyeing of the river. These events will give you a fabulous view of Chicago’s beautiful architecture standing tall against a bright green Chicago river. This way, you won’t need the luck of the Irish to find a good spot along the Chicago River with thousands of your closest friends. I encourage you to head to their websites ASAP to book your tickets well in advance.

Restaurants and Bars on the Chicago River

Gibson’s Italia: You can book your table online for a spectacular view of the Chicago river. Gibson’s Italia is still accepting Lunch and Dinner reservations but they book up quickly!

Pizza Portofino: Tickets are available for the Pizzeria Portofino River-Dyeing Party 8 AM–12 PM with live DJ, pizza, appetizers, and one of my favorite Chicago River views in the city. They also have one of my favorite gluten free pizzas in the city. Read about their pizza here: The Best Gluten Free Pizza in Chicago

RPM Seafood:  RPM Seafood is on the same corner as Pizza Portofino which means that the view is just as spectacular! Tickets are available for their river-dyeing party from 9 AM–12 PM with live DJ, passed appetizers, chilled seafood, cocktails, and a premium bar package.

London House Chicago: London House has an incredible birdseye view of the Chicago river, and they offer a 21+ rooftop party, and a family-friendly ballroom brunch to watch the river turn green. Tickets are available on their website.

More St. Patrick’s Day Events with a View of the Chicago River

Travelle at the Langham Hotel: Reserve your spot at Travelle at the Langham for $150 for a great view of the river while enjoying cocktails and complimentary bar bites. Your downpayment will be applied to your final bill.

Raised: An Urban Rooftop: Tickets are available starting at $280 a person for themed signature cocktails, draft beer & wine, Irish-inspired buffet, swag bag, live bagpiper, and DJ! And of course, a fantastic view of Chicago’s annual River Dyeing to to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2026.

Chicago Brewhouse: The Brewhouse hosts a Chicago Riverwalk party with two sessions (10 AM and 1:30 PM), featuring green beer, Irish bites, and live music. Tickets are general admission, and are available on their website for pre-order only.

Island Party Hut: Purchase your ticket ahead of time for this party on the riverwalk with amazing views of the Chicago river dyeing , a shot of whiskey, and live DJ.

Lizzie McNeil’s Irish Pub: Lizzie McNeil’s is Located right on the Chicago River. Purchase your ticket ahead of time to celebrate with live music, festive food, and front-row views of the iconic Chicago River dyeing.

Bars, Restaurants, and Events Near the River:

Millennium Hall (Millennium Park): From 10am-1pm, you can purchase general admission tickets for “Paddy’s Kegs & Eggs” at Millennium Park with a full buffet, bar, and live entertainment. After 1pm, food and drinks will be available for purchase à la carte.

Emerald Loop Bar & Grill: Opens at 8am on March 14th for Irish breakfast, Irish Music and Guinness. The Emerald Loop is located near the river. A great location if you just want to see the Chicago River in the afternoon after the river has already been dyed green.

A few more of my favorite Bars and Pubs: Guinness Open Gate Brewery is sure to be a lot of fun on the 14th along with Chief O’Neil’s, Mrs. Murphy’s and Sons Irish Bistro, Navy Pier, Paradise Park, and Cork and Kerry Bridgeport. And don’t forget- most people are celebrating St. Patrick’s day on Saturday, March 14th whether it’s an Irish Pub or the bar closest to where you are staying. It all depends on what you are looking for.

Emmit’s Irish Pub: My Old Stomping Grounds

Back in the day, the only place I ever wanted to be on St. Patrick’s Day was Emmit’s Irish Pub on Grand, Milwaukee, and Halsted. Gosh I miss it there! So many wonderful memories whether it was St. Patrick’s Day, or just another Sunday afternoon. It was truly one of Chicago’s finest, and I just loved walking in, catching up with Ronnie, and enjoying a Guinness or a Cider at the bar.

Sadly, Emmit’s closed in 2022. But thankfully, Emmit’s will forever be immortalized on the silver screen in movies like Ocean’s 11, Uncle Buck, and Backdraft.

Fado’s Irish Pub

And while no pub will ever be Emmit’s, I also have a great love of Fado’s Irish Pub on Grand Avenue in River North. Fado has been the place of many wonderful memories for me as well. And while they will surely be busy on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago IL, you can be confident that the Irish Spirit will be strong, and the Guinness will be plentiful.

St. Patrick’s Day Block Parties and Street Fests

The Shamrock and Roll Street Fest: From 11am-10pm on Division Street from State Street to Clark Street, you’ll find an Irish celebration with live bands, traditional Irish Dancers, Bagpipers, Food, Drink, and as they say on their website “nonstop Paddy’s Day spirit.” You can purchase a tickets ahead of time on their website.

Shamrock’n at Old St. Pat’s Church: From 11am-5pm at Old St. Pat’s Church at 625 W. Adams in the West Loop, you can celebrate St Patrick’s Day at this family event. There will be live music, food and beverages, activities for kids of all ages, dancing, and as they say on their website “a warm and welcoming atmosphere.” Tickets are available on their website

St Patrick’s Fest at The Irish American Heritage Center: The IAHC St. Patrick’s Day Festival on the Northwest side of Chicago will be held on March 14th and March 15th 2026. Enjoy live music, dancing, food, and family fun for a “lively, all ages celebration.” Tickets can be purchased on their website.

Irish Village Market: The Irish Village Market is a free event that is suitable for all ages. The Market is located at Pioneer Court which is in front of 401 Michigan Avenue and just beside DuSable Bridge in the heart of downtown Chicago. From 9am-3pm there will be food and beverage along with Irish Music and dance.

My Plans for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, IL

I am so excited for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago IL this year! Many thanks to Marisa for introducing me to Robby and the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band . “A good friend is like a four-leaf clover, hard to find and lucky to have.” Looking forward to celebrating with you, and the rest of Chicago next weekend!

And while I am still making plans, you best believe I will be wearing green and a smile. It’s a day for joyful greetings with friends, special moments with family, corned beef and cabbage, and paying homage to the true belles of the ball: The Chicago River, the beautiful city of Chicago, and the Irish immigrants- past and present that made all of this possible. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Ready to Visit Chicago? Visit Our Chicago Page to learn more about The Top Things to Do In Chicago. You can also read my top rated article about the Best Gluten Free Pizza in Chicago. These restaurants also have some of the best classic pizza in Chicago that you may not have heard of!