St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is always a spectacle of crazy with thousands flocking into the loop every year to watch as the Chicago River turns green and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade stumbles through Grant Park. If the tourists drive you nuts, try the South Side Irish Parade just south of Hyde Park. Regardless of where you decide to celebrate, green beer and mistakes will follow. Here’s a quick run-down.
When is St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day is March 17, which this year falls on a Friday.
What is St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day occurs annually on March 17, the date marked by the death of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s most celebrated patron saint. The festivities surrounding this date commemorate Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. Today, it’s more about celebrating the Irish heritage in general with massive amounts of alcohol and food.
Where is the party?
“This year the Chicago parade occurs on the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day, March 11th, beginning with the dyeing of the Chicago River at 9am and continuing in Grant Park with a parade at noon. The South Side Irish Parade occurs Sunday the 12th, stepping off from 103rd and Western at noon.”, according to Time Out Chicago’s full spread on St. Patty’s Day.
Info, beer crawls, and food for the occasion, here: Time Out Chicago
And if you need practice, try the 5th Annual Windy City Brewhaha Saturday March 6th. Tickets here: Windy City Brewhaha