St. Patrick's Day 2026: Chicago River Goes Emerald Green — Everything You Need to Know Before

St. Patrick's Day is TOMORROW — Tuesday, March 17, 2026! And while the official holiday is this week, Chicago already celebrated in spectacular fashion over the weekend. Here's your complete guide to everything Irish across America!

🌊 Chicago River Dyeing — Already Happened This Weekend!

The annual green dyeing of the Chicago River is one of the most unique St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the world. The best place to watch is along the Chicago River between State and Columbus. (The New York Times)

The tradition dates back to 1962. Members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union Local 130 have handled the dyeing ever since. They use about 40 pounds of a vegetable-based orange-red powder — yes, orange-red — that runs green once it hits the water. The formula is non-toxic, but the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret. (Daily Mail)

The Chicago River remained green for about five hours before returning to its original color. (Variety)

🎉 Chicago's 71st Annual Parade

The 71st annual Chicago Saint Patrick's Day Parade ran along Columbus Drive between Monroe Street and Balbo Drive. The 2026 theme "Faith, Peace & Unity" was inspired by Pope Leo XIV. (The New York Times)

🗽 NYC Parade — TOMORROW on Fifth Avenue!

The celebration isn't over yet! The biggest St. Patrick's Day event is still ahead:

St. Patrick's Day festivities also include the South Side Irish Parade, which officials say is the largest community-based St. Patrick's Day Parade outside of Dublin, Ireland. (The New York Times)

The 265th New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade marches up Fifth Avenue TOMORROW, March 17 at 11:00 AM — live on NBC 4 New York!

☘️ Fun Facts About the Chicago River Dyeing

The idea was spawned by Stephen Bailey, who was the union's business manager in the early '60s and thought the dye — used to trace leaks in buildings — would be a nice way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. (The Guardian)

The first person entrusted with turning the river green was William J. Barry, a Chicago port employee. Mike Butler assumed the role in the early 1970s and led the volunteer crew for more than 40 years. (Fox News)

📅 St. Patrick's Day 2026 Quick Guide

Event

Date

Time

🌊 Chicago River Dyeing

March 14 ✅ Done!

10:00 AM

🎉 Chicago Parade

March 14 ✅ Done!

Noon

🗽 NYC 5th Ave Parade

March 17 TOMORROW

11:00 AM

🍺 St. Patrick's Day

Tuesday March 17

All Day!

🍀 How to Celebrate Tomorrow

🟢 Wear GREEN or get pinched!

🍺 Visit your local Irish pub

🎵 Listen to Irish music

📺 Watch NYC Parade LIVE on NBC 4

Happy St. Patrick's Day! ☘️ Are you celebrating tomorrow? Tell us how in the comments! 👇