Want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago but are unsure what to do? From family-friendly attractions to seasonal events, the Windy City offers endless options for everyone.
Learn some of the most popular activities and why they’re worth checking out during this fun, festive holiday.
St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago: 6 Ideas to Celebrate in the Windy City for All Ages
Below, we’ll share the top six things to do for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago with public transit directions.
1. See Green Water at the Chicago River Dyeing
The Chicago River dyeing is one of the most popular St. Patrick’s Day attractions in the city. For over 70 years, the City of Chicago has added 100 pounds of emerald green dye into the Chicago River for this holiday tradition every year. It’s non-toxic and attracts people from all over to see the vibrant colored water that flows throughout downtown Chicago. The dyeing of the Chicago River takes place at 10:00 am on the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day. However, it only lasts a few hours, so get there sooner before the color fades for pictures.
The Chicago River is located in the River North neighborhood. For the best viewing spots, we recommend watching between State St and Columbus Dr walkways or on the bridges. Keep in mind that the lower portion of the Chicago Riverwalk is closed for the holiday’s ticketed events.
2. Take the Kids to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Downtown
Source: Time Out
Searching for family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day activities in Chicago? The kids are sure to love the city’s famous annual parade. This year marks their 70th anniversary, where you’ll see the celebration of Irish culture on display downtown for three hours. From Irish pipe bands to step dancers and larger-than-life boats, it’s one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country. There are even packages with a corned beef and cabbage dinner and close-up seats available.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place in downtown Chicago on Columbus Dr between Balbo Dr and Monroe Dr.
3. Visit the Irish-American Heritage Center
Source: Chicago On the Cheap
The Irish-American Heritage Center is a great way to learn more about Irish culture during the holiday. They have a library, museum, art gallery, auditorium, classes, and even an Irish pub! The non-profit organization is dedicated to educational programs, with several Irish presidents who visited. They also have a post-parade party with live Irish music, singers, dancing, food, and drinks around 1:00 pm. Tickets are required to attend.
The Irish-American Heritage Center is located at 4626 N Knox Ave in Unit 301. The Montrose train station is a nine-minute walk via the Blue Line.
4. Race in the Shamrock Shuffle
Source: Shamrock Shuffle
Searching for ways to stay active for St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago? The famous Shamrock Shuffle isn’t one to miss. It’s an annual event with an 8K running or two-mile walking course available for all fitness levels. You’ll find thousands of participants dressed in on-theme green outfits and fun costumes.
The 8K course starts at Grant Park, goes throughout the Chicago Loop, and ends at Grant Park.
The two-mile course takes place at the Lakefront Trail along the picturesque Lake Michigan in the Lakeview neighborhood.
5. Eat Local Authentic Irish Cuisine
Don’t miss out on eating authentic Irish cuisine when celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago. There are several quick-service and sit-down restaurants with special menus for the holidays, including:
Chief O’Neills
Source: Chief O’Neills
Voted as one of the best Irish pubs in the world, Chief O’Neills is also a restaurant serving popular dishes like braised pork shank with whole grain mustard spaetzle and steak and Guinness pie. They also have a beautiful beer garden with outside seating available.
Chief O’Neills is located at 3471 N Elston Ave in the Avondale neighborhood. The Belmont train station is a 15-minute walk via the Blue Line.
The Gage
Source: The Gage
The Gage is an award-winning upscale Irish pub serving refined, rustic dishes like venison burgers, hot Irish coffee, and Bourbon flights. It’s also near the downtown St. Patrick’s Day for nearby views without the crowds.
The Gage is located at 24 S Michigan Ave, across the street from the Crown Fountain in Millennium Park. The Monroe train station is a six-minute walk via the Red Line.
The Dearborn
Source: The Dearborn
The Dearborn is an Irish-American tavern with a winning fish and chips dish that won on Beat Bobby Flay, along with standout tavern-style pizzas and craft cocktails.
The Dearborn is located at 145 N Dearborn St in the heart of The Loop neighborhood. The Clark/Lake train station is a four-minute walk via all routes available.
6. Go Irish Pub Crawling With Friends
Source: Chief O’Neills
If you’re looking for adults-only Chicago St. Patrick’s Day events, there are plenty of holiday-themed pub crawls worth attending. As listed above, Chief O’Neills also has an annual festival, featuring face painters, pipe bands, whiskey chicken, and more.
For high-energy events, Fado Irish Pub & Restaurant has an annual party with no tickets required, only a $10 cover charge. They have rugby and league soccer celebrations on TV, live Irish music, DJs, and sometimes dancers.
Fado Irish Pub & Restaurant is located at 100 W Grand Ave in the River North neighborhood. The Merchandise Mart train station is a seven-minute walk via the Brown and Purple Lines.
St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago FAQs:
When is the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2026?
The 2026 Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade takes place on Saturday, March 14th at 12:30 pm.
How Long is the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade?
The Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade is around three hours long, running from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
When Do They Dye the River Green in Chicago?
The Chicago River dyeing takes place at 10:00 am on the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day.
How Long Does the Chicago River Stay Green?
The Chicago River stays vibrant green for St. Patrick’s Day for a few hours. However, a light green hue can last up to 48 hours.
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