5 Things You Can Do on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is a day unlike any other. The city of Chicago transforms into a big and vibrant celebration of Irish culture, music, and tradition. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this holiday offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the festivities. From iconic parades to unique cultural experiences, here are 5 fun activities to make the most of this fun holiday in the Windy City!

 

1. Watch the Chicago River Dyeing

A signature Chicago event is the dyeing of the Chicago River. Every Year, the Saturday before St. Patty’s Day, the river is turned bright green. It’s one of the most iconic celebrations in the city. To dye the entire river takes about 45 minutes. The best spots to watch the river dyeing are from the Chicago River Walk or from various bridges that span the water. This is a fantastic way to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day morning.

2. Attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Chicago hosts one of the largest and most vibrant St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S. The parade takes place the Saturday before March 17th. It usually begins at noon and features bagpipers, marching bands, colorful floats, and Irish dancers. Participants of the parade dress in green and celebrate Irish culture and heritage. This parade draws thousands of people each year and everyone enjoys themselves. Don’t forgot to bring your friends and have a good time.

3. Get a Shamrock Shake

If you enjoy mint-flavored treats, then the Shamrock Shake is definitely for you! Many people find this drink delicious and refreshing. You can get it as a milkshake or a Mcflurry. The combination of the smooth vanilla ice and the minty flavor can be a real hit for those who like a treat. However, the drink is only available for a limited time and is something you can only get at McDonald’s. Try this drink or ice cream before it goes; it’s popular for a reason.

 

4. Wear Green

On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone who celebrates wears green. People wear green on St. Patrick’s Day because the color symbolizes Irish pride and wearing it on St. Patty’s Day is a great way to celebrate Irish identity and history. Wearing green really adds to the festive spirit of the day and helps you get into the celebratory mood. People often enjoy the sense of community and tradition that comes with dressing up for an occasion. Whether you’re joining in on the fun with friends, participating in parades, or just enjoying the day’s activities, wearing green connects you with the holiday’s playful spirit. Plus, it’s an easy way to avoid those pesky little leprechauns who might try to pinch you!

5. Try Irish Food

Irish food is quite popular, especially for those who enjoy comfort meals. Many people enjoy Irish food and the food isn’t that uncommon. Dishes like stew, corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and soda bread have a very strong following. These are foods you can find in Ireland that you can make right in your own home. Shepherd’s pie is a pretty common dish in America, and it’s very tasty. Shepherd’s pie is a classic Irish dish made with a layer of cooked meat, which is usually lamb, topped with mashed potatoes. The meat is typically cooked with vegetables and simmered in gravy. The dish is perfect for colder weather. I personally think shepherds pie is very good and is something people should try at least once.

 

In conclusion, St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago offers a vital mix of cultural celebrations, festive events, and unique experiences. The city’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities provide a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself into Chicago’s Irish heritage and have an unforgettable time!

Works Cited

Special event management. (2025, March 1st). Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Fitzgerald, J. (2025, March, 13). All Recipes.

Chrisco, Z. (2025, February 18). Chicago Riverwalk

Greenspan, R. (2020, February, 240. Time