Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a day of festivity that has spread far beyond its Irish roots.
In cities around the world, people come together to celebrate Irish heritage with parades, wearing of green attire, public feasting, and, of course, a lot of fun.
One city that truly knows how to celebrate this day is Chicago. From dyeing the Chicago River green to hosting one of the largest parades in the country, the Windy City offers a variety of unique and exciting activities for Saint Patrick’s Day.
Greening of the Chicago River
Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 10:00
Best Viewing Spots:
- Upper Wacker Drive (between State Street and Columbus Drive)
- Chicago Riverwalk (get there early for a good spot)
- Michigan Avenue Bridge (great central location)
- DuSable Bridge (near Michigan Ave for a scenic view)
- Columbus Drive Bridge (less crowded, great vantage point)
- The Westin Chicago River North (offers a great elevated view if staying at the hotel)
One of the most iconic events in Chicago on Saint Patrick’s Day is the dyeing of the Chicago River. This tradition started in 1962 and has been a crowd favorite ever since.
The river is dyed a vibrant green, creating a stunning spectacle that sets the mood for the day’s festivities.
The best places to view this spectacle are the bridges at Michigan Avenue, Columbus Drive, and Wabash Avenue. Remember to arrive early to secure a good spot as this event attracts thousands of spectators.
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade In Chicago 2025
The Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025, starting at 12:15 PM.
The parade will proceed along Columbus Drive, beginning at Balbo Drive and concluding at Monroe Drive. This route offers scenic views of Grant Park, the Chicago skyline, and Lake Michigan.
Prior to the parade, the annual dyeing of the Chicago River will take place at 10:00 AM on the same day. The best viewing spots for this event are along the Chicago River between State Street and Columbus Drive, particularly from Upper Wacker Drive and the bridges.
For those interested in post-parade festivities, Mercy Home for Boys & Girls is hosting a March for Kids Post-Parade Party from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Venue SIX10, located at 610 S. Michigan Ave. The event features live Irish music, step dancing performances, and family-friendly activities.
Additionally, the South Side Irish Parade is set for Sunday, March 16, 2025, starting at 12:00 PM. This parade begins at 103rd Street and Western Avenue, marching south to 115th Street.
Best Bars and Irish Pubs
After the parade, many locals and tourists head to the numerous bars and Irish pubs in the city to continue the celebration. Here are some of the best places to consider:
- The Irish Oak: This Wrigleyville pub is known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Irish fare. On Saint Patrick’s Day, you can expect live music and a festive crowd.
- Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant: Named after the Chief of Police who organized the first Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago, this pub offers a wide selection of Irish whiskeys and traditional food.
- Fado Irish Pub: Located in the heart of River North, Fado is a favorite among locals for its authentic Irish ambiance and extensive beer list.
Family-Friendly Events and Activities
Saint Patrick’s Day in Chicago isn’t just for adults. There are plenty of family-friendly events and activities that kids will love. Here are a few suggestions:
Saturday, March 15, 2025
Chicago River Dyeing (10:00 AM)
- Location: Chicago River between State Street and Columbus Drive
- Best viewing spots: Upper Wacker Drive and the bridges
- A must-see event where the river turns bright green
Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade (12:15 PM)
- Route: Columbus Drive (from Balbo Drive to Monroe Drive)
- Features colorful floats, Irish dancers, bagpipers, and marching bands
- One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S.
Shamrock’n the Block at Old St. Patrick’s Church (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Location: Old St. Patrick’s Church
- Activities: Live Irish music, dance performances, and family-friendly fun
- Tickets: $30 for adults, $10 for children (includes a hot dog)
Mercy Home March for Kids Post-Parade Party (1:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
- Location: Venue SIX10, 610 S. Michigan Ave
- Family-friendly activities, Irish step dancing, live music
- Supports Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
Sunday, March 16, 2025
South Side Irish Parade (12:00 PM)
- Route: Western Avenue from 103rd to 115th Street
- A family-oriented parade featuring local bands, Irish dancers, and community groups
- Alcohol-free event
Northwest Side Irish Parade (12:00 PM)
- Location: Norwood Park neighborhood (Starts at William J. Onahan School)
- Celebrates Irish heritage with performances and family activities
- Great option for those wanting a smaller community parade
Other Spots You Can Visit
1. River Dyeing Viewing Parties
Several venues offer exclusive viewing experiences for the river dyeing:
- LondonHouse Chicago: Hosts an annual River Dyeing Viewing Party with an open bar, breakfast bites, live DJs, and stunning views from their rooftop.
- Pizzeria Portofino: Offers signature cocktails, appetizers, and pizza stations with a front-row seat to the river dyeing.
- Raised, An Urban Rooftop: Provides a bird’s eye view of the river dyeing from a heated rooftop terrace, featuring green beer, mimosas, an Irish breakfast buffet, and entertainment from a live DJ and bagpiper.
Irish Pubs and Restaurants
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and festive atmospheres at these establishments:
- Chief O’Neill’s: Voted one of the best Irish pubs globally, it offers a buffet, proper pints, and a roster of all-Irish musicians.
- The Gage: Located near the parade route, it boasts an impressive selection of spirits and a historic ambiance.
- Cork & Kerry: With locations in Bridgeport and Beverly, this pub provides an authentic Irish experience.
St. Patrick’s Day River Cruises
Admire the emerald green river from the best seats in the house. Chicago’s river cruises offer a one-of-a-kind perspective of the day’s festivities, including themed cocktails, Irish cuisine, live bagpipe music, and views of the thousands of spectators lining the river’s banks.
Irish American Heritage Center Events
Leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, the Irish American Heritage Center hosts various events, including Irish singing workshops, concerts, and Celtic art classes. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Irish culture.
Festive Food and Drink Specials
Many Chicago restaurants and bars offer special menus and events for St. Patrick’s Day. For instance, Miru, perched on the 11th floor of the St. Regis building, will open its two expansive terraces for St. Patrick’s Day, including an open bar and a live DJ.
Dining Options
After a day of festivities, you’ll likely be looking for a place to eat. Here are some restaurants that offer special menus for Saint Patrick’s Day:
- The Gage: Located near Millennium Park, this upscale gastropub offers a special Irish menu for Saint Patrick’s Day, featuring dishes like corned beef and cabbage.
- Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro: This family-owned restaurant in North Center serves traditional Irish food, and their Saint Patrick’s Day menu is a local favorite.
Remember, Saint Patrick’s Day is a popular time in Chicago, so it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.
Unique Experiences
Chicago offers some unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else on Saint Patrick’s Day. Here are a few that you might want to check out:
- Chicago Riverwalk: After the river is dyed green, take a stroll along the Riverwalk. It’s a great place to take in the city’s architecture and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Skydeck Chicago: For a different perspective, head to the Skydeck at Willis Tower. You can see the green river and the parade from 1,353 feet in the air!
- Navy Pier: This iconic Chicago landmark often hosts Saint Patrick’s Day events, including live music and dance performances.
Staying in Chicago
If you’re visiting from out of town, you’ll need a place to stay. Here are some hotels that offer special deals for Saint Patrick’s Day:
- The Drake Hotel: This historic hotel often offers special packages for Saint Patrick’s Day, including discounted room rates and complimentary breakfast.
- The Palmer House Hilton: Located in the heart of the Loop, this hotel is within walking distance of many Saint Patrick’s Day events.
Remember to book early as hotels can fill up quickly on Saint Patrick’s Day.
Transportation in Chicago
Navigating through the city on Saint Patrick’s Day can be a challenge with the large crowds and street closures for the parade. Here are some transportation options:
- Chicago Transit Authority (CTA): The CTA provides extensive bus and train services throughout the city. It’s an affordable and convenient way to get around, especially on a busy day like Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Taxis and Ride-Shares: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Chicago. These can be a good option if you’re traveling with a group or prefer a more direct route.
- Biking: Chicago is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and rental services like Divvy Bikes.
Remember to plan your route in advance and allow extra time for travel.
Shopping for Saint Patrick’s Day
Whether you’re looking for festive attire, decorations, or souvenirs, Chicago has plenty of shopping options for Saint Patrick’s Day:
- Irish Shop: Located in Lakeview, this shop offers a wide range of Irish goods, from clothing and jewelry to home decor and gifts.
- Saint Patrick’s Day Store: This online store offers a variety of Saint Patrick’s Day merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and accessories.
- Party City: For all your party supply needs, Party City has a section dedicated to Saint Patrick’s Day, with decorations, costumes, and more.
Detailed Guide to Irish Pubs in Chicago
Chicago is home to a vibrant Irish community, and this is reflected in the city’s many Irish pubs. Each pub offers its own unique atmosphere and selection of food and drinks. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best Irish pubs in Chicago:
The Irish Oak
Located in the lively neighborhood of Wrigleyville, The Irish Oak is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The pub offers a cozy, traditional Irish pub atmosphere, complete with dark wood interiors and a fireplace.
Their menu features classic Irish dishes like Shepherd’s Pie and Fish and Chips, and they have an extensive selection of beers and whiskeys.
On Saint Patrick’s Day, The Irish Oak hosts live music and serves green beer, making it a popular spot for celebrations.
Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant
Named after Francis O’Neill, the Chief of Police who organized the first Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago, Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant is a testament to Chicago’s Irish heritage.
The pub is known for its large outdoor garden, live traditional Irish music sessions, and Sunday brunch buffet. Their menu features a mix of Irish and American dishes, and they offer a wide selection of beers and spirits.
Fado Irish Pub
Fado Irish Pub, located in the heart of River North, is known for its authentic Irish ambiance. The pub was designed and built in Ireland and then shipped to Chicago.
Fado offers a wide range of beers, including several Irish favorites, and their menu features both traditional Irish dishes and modern twists on classics. They also host live music and sports events, making it a lively spot to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
Galway Arms
Situated in Lincoln Park, Galway Arms is a charming Irish pub that offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
The pub features a beautiful outdoor patio, live music, and a menu filled with hearty Irish fare. Their drink menu includes a variety of beers, wines, and an impressive selection of Irish whiskeys.
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro
This family-owned restaurant in North Center is more than just a pub—it’s a celebration of Irish culture.
The two-story building houses a restaurant, a pub, and even a grocery store selling Irish goods. Their menu offers a modern take on traditional Irish cuisine, and their bar boasts one of the largest selections of Irish whiskeys in Chicago.
Each of these pubs offers a unique experience, but they all share a common theme: a love for Irish culture and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for a place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day or just want to enjoy a pint and some good food, these Irish pubs in Chicago have got you covered.
FAQs
Green is the color of the day! Dress warmly as March can still be quite chilly in Chicago.
Yes, the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is free and open to the public.
Public transportation is your best bet. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides extensive bus and train services throughout the city.
Many bars and pubs in Chicago serve a wide selection of Irish whiskeys. Do some research and find a place that suits your taste.
Plan your day in advance, arrive early for events, and don’t forget to wear green!
