St. Patrick’s Day is next week, but the fun gets started early in Chicago. Dyeing the Chicago River green — a 60-year tradition — and the downtown parade — a 65-year tradition — return for the first time since 2019. Both events, which were canceled the past two years because of the coronavirus pandemic, take place Saturday. (A lucky few, however, stumbled upon a surprise river dyeing last year.)
The city is expecting an influx of people to celebrate the events, so here’s what you need to know if you plan to experience them in person.
10 a.m., Saturday: Chicago River dyeing begins
The dyeing process stretches from Orleans Street almost three quarters of a mile east to Columbus Drive. It’s a much wider area than pre-COVID years.
Watching from home? Tune into WMAQ-Ch. 5’s livestream.
12:15 p.m., Saturday: Downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins
There is about a two-hour gap between when dyeing of the Chicago River is completed and the parade — which is in its 65th year — begins.
- Stepping off from: The corner of Columbus and Balbo drives and heading north on Columbus about a half mile to Monroe Street.
- Entry: Starting at 10 a.m., spectators can only access the parade route via Jackson Avenue and Ida B. Wells Drive.
- Security: All bags and purses will be checked at entrances to the parade route. No alcohol, coolers, open beverages, CamelBaks or personal water bottles are allowed.
Watching from home? Tune into WLS-Ch.7’s livestream.
For more details on transportation, etc., click here.
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