Saint Patrick’s Day: Pigeon Release Celebrates Irish Spirit in Southern France

Chicago’s annual dyeing of the Chicago River turned the waterway a vibrant shade of green on Saturday, March 14, 2026, continuing a tradition that began in 1962. The event, held the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day, drew large crowds to the city’s waterfront, according to CNN reporting.

The tradition dates back over half a century, and the dye used is a vegetable-based formula, making it an environmentally conscious celebration, as noted by Choose Chicago on Facebook. The dyeing typically occurs between State and Columbus streets, offering prime viewing locations for spectators.

The dyeing of the river is a key component of Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities, which also include a downtown parade, pub crawls, and neighborhood events. The city’s Irish heritage, particularly strong in neighborhoods like Beverly and near the Irish American Heritage Center in Albany Park, is prominently displayed during the celebrations. The Chicago River dyeing tradition began in 1962, building on a St. Patrick’s Day parade tradition that started even earlier, in 1843.

WGN News reported on the history of the event, highlighting its significance as a longstanding Chicago tradition. The event is a major draw for tourists and residents alike, marking a unique and visually striking celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.