Chicago, Illinois – Every St. Patrick’s Day, the city of Chicago celebrates by dyeing the Chicago River a vibrant emerald green, a tradition that has become a beloved symbol of the holiday for decades. This year, as the city prepares for the 69th annual river dyeing event, the excitement is palpable among locals and visitors alike.
The dyeing of the Chicago River will take place at 10 a.m. on March 16, just one day before St. Patrick’s Day. Those looking to witness this iconic event can do so in person, but should be prepared for large crowds along the riverwalk. For those unable to attend in person, NBC Chicago will be live streaming the river dyeing from 10-11 a.m. on various streaming platforms.
The tradition of dyeing the river green dates back to 1961 when the Chicago Plumbers Union noticed a unique shade of green on the coveralls of one of their workers, stemming from a dye used to detect leaks in the river. Since then, the annual tradition has grown to coincide with the city’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, creating a festive atmosphere in downtown Chicago.
As part of the river dyeing event, the parade will kick off at approximately 12:15 p.m. along Columbus Drive, offering spectators a chance to celebrate Irish culture and heritage in the heart of the city. The route will stretch from Balbo to Monroe Street, providing access to various downtown attractions for parade-goers.
One of the highlights of the river dyeing process is the mysterious concoction used by the Chicago Plumbers Union to turn the river green. While the initial dye appears orange, it magically transforms into a vibrant green hue once it sets in, captivating onlookers with its quick color change. The exact recipe for the dye remains a closely guarded secret, adding to the intrigue of the annual event.
Despite the secrecy surrounding the dye recipe, the environmentally friendly formula used by the plumbers union ensures that the Chicago River is dyed green in a safe and sustainable manner. This commitment to tradition and environmental responsibility has solidified the river dyeing as a cherished tradition in Chicago, drawing thousands of spectators each year to witness this unique spectacle.