St. Patrick’s Day Getaway

ST. PATRICK’S DAY GETAWAY : Chicago Curb your cabin fever with a trip to the Windy City for a St. Patrick’s Day Getaway!

Dyeing of the Chicago River

Grab a spot on one of the bridges along the Chicago River (between Columbus & Wacker) and watch one of the world’s most famous St. Patrick’s Day traditions: the Chicago River dyeing. Make sure you get there early as there are thousands of spectators for this annual event. The water starts turning green around 9 AM and keeps its color for about five hours.

Irish American Heritage Center

One of Chicago’s largest St. Patrick’s Day events takes place at the Irish American Heritage Center at 4626 North Knox Avenue. Following the downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade and running until midnight, the St. Patrick Festival has something for everyone. Authentic food, drinks and entertainment delight guests of all ages.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The centerpiece of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade travels north on Columbus Drive, beginning at Balbo and ending at Monroe. Featuring colorful floats, Irish step dancers and bagpipers, the parade kicks off at noon and lasts three hours.

Clover Hunt at Fischer Farms

Fischer Farms is hosting a clover hunt starting at 10:30 AM! Come visit the farm in your best St. Patrick’s Day attire to search far and wide for the legendary four-leaf clover that will bring luck to your day. If four-leaf clovers aren’t your lucky charm, a leprechaun has hidden chocolate gold coins all over Walker Park (Pleasant Dale Park District) for you to find instead! Once the coins are found, refreshments and a craft are available. This event starts at 10 AM sharp and is geared towards kids!

Shamrock’n the Block

Head down to Old St. Patrick’s Church at 700 West Adams Street and celebrate at Shamrock’n the Block. Featuring an outdoor “pub”, this neighborhood celebration offers beer, corned beef sandwiches, live entertainment and a family-friendly kids zone.

*All of the events listed happen Saturday, March 14, 2020* We wish you a happy St. Patrick’s Day! No matter how you celebrate, stay safe and be responsible.

Emily is finishing her degree in Writing with a minor in Political Science at Grand Valley State University. In college, she has been a member of the Laker Marching Band and the GV Running Club. Emily enjoys writing creative nonfiction and is passionate about writing young adult fiction to inspire young writers.