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Best Ways To Celebrate St. Patrick's Day In Chicago

By Michelle Guilbeau

St. Patrick's Day is a big deal in Chicago, some believe it is one of Chicago's favorite holidays. Chicago is home to a large Irish-American population and the love for anything Irish is represented year round but especially on March 17.  The St. Patrick's Day celebrations abound in the the city, there are family friendly festivities and adult only festivities, all are a tremendous amount of fun!  Here you will find the 5 best ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Chicago.

Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade
Starts at Balbo Street and Columbus Drive
Chicago, IL 60616
www.choosechicago.com

Date: March 17, 2018 at 12 p.m.

This annual celebration in Chicago is one of the biggest St. Patrick's Day parades in the country, this year marks the 63rd anniversary of the Plumbers Local 130 sponsored event. This parade offers many colorful floats, troops of Irish step dancers, numerous marching bands and of course bagpipes. Rain, snow or shine, this parade is a sight to see for the entire family and most important, be sure to show off your best green gear.

Dyeing Of The Chicago River
Intersection of Michigan Ave.,Wacker Drive and Chicago River
Chicago, IL 60616
www.chicagostpatricksdayparade.org

Date: March 17, 2018 at 9 a.m.

The dyeing of the Chicago River is quite the sight to see. The dye is initially orange, but when it makes contact with the water it quickly changes to a Emerald green and some individuals consider it to be be one of the many miracles of the day.  This Chicago St. Patrick's Day celebration brings hundreds of thousands of spectators each year so be sure to arrive early if driving or consider public transportation as parking may be a challenge.

St. Pat's Friday Happy Hour Booze Cruise
Anita II Dusable Harbor
200 N. Breakwater Access
Chicago, IL 60601
www.chicagopartyboat.com

Date: March 16, 2018 at 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Take a cruise on a luxury yacht on Lake Michigan and celebrate St.Patrick's Day. The cruise will include a live DJ, dancing, giveaways and the opportunity to get the best views of Lake Michigan from the 3 floors which include: the lounge, top deck and dance area.  This booze cruise a fun way to do some celebrating for the pre- St.Patrick's Day with friends and enjoy the beautiful skyline of Chicago.

Related: Most Instagram Worthy Locations In Chicago

Godfrey St. Pat's
The Godfrey Hotel Chicago
127 West Huron St.
Chicago, IL 60654
www.eventbrite.com

Date: March 17, 2018 at 8 a.m.to 12 p.m.

This St. Patrick's Day party includes bottomless beers, Bloody Mary's and mimosas as well as a breakfast buffet. This party is a great way to start the St. Patrick's Day festivities and the breakfast will help get party goers get their much needed energy to make it through the day. Celebrate your birthday on this day and your ticket is free, be sure to email the link listed in the ticket information.

St.Patrick's Festival
Irish American Heritage Center
4626 N. Knox Ave.
Chicago, IL 60630
(773) 282-7035
www.irish-american.org/event/st-patricks-festival-3

Date: March 17, 2018 at 1 p.m.to 12 a.m.

Those who are looking for everything Irish should attend this full day and night festival, it is one of Chicago's largest St. Patrick's Day events.  It is a family-orientated celebration which will include: dance, music, food and drink for purchase, activities for kids, vendors who will be selling Irish gifts and an arts and crafts fair.  Tickets can be purchased online.

Related: Best Cooking Classes In Chicago

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