Enjoy the many shades of emerald green this weekend, as the City of Chicago celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with the historic Chicago River dye. Here are just a few ways to make the most of St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Chicago River Dyeing
The annual Chicago River dyeing is one of the most unique St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the world. Typically held the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day (the same day as the downtown parade), this bucket-list event is a beloved tradition that dates back over half a century.  The green river dyeing starts at 10 a.m.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The 70th annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest in the country and the centerpiece of the city’s unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Catch the festive procession on Columbus Drive between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive.

St. Patrick’s Day River Cruises
Delight in 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. Watch the waters turn green, enjoy themed cocktails and Irish cuisine, hear live bagpipe music, and wave at the thousands of spectators lining the river’s banks.