Chicago St. Patrick's
Day Parade
2027 Theme
To Be Announced
One of the nation's largest and most celebrated St. Patrick's Day parades. Join us in downtown Chicago for an unforgettable celebration of Irish heritage.
Countdown to Parade Day
March 13, 2027
Parade Day
Columbus Drive
Downtown Chicago
12:00 PM
Kick-off Time
9:00 AM
River Dyeing
A Chicago Tradition Like No Other
For decades, the Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade has brought together hundreds of thousands to celebrate Irish heritage in the heart of the city.
Every year, Chicago turns its river emerald green, and the streets come alive with the sound of bagpipes, the sight of vibrant floats, and the spirit of Irish pride. Our parade is more than an event — it's a celebration of community, heritage, and the enduring bond between Chicago and Ireland.
From the iconic dyeing of the Chicago River to the grand procession down Columbus Drive, the Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade is one of the largest and most beloved celebrations of its kind in the United States.
River Dyeing
Watch the Chicago River turn emerald green
Live Music
Bagpipes, Irish bands, and the sound of celebration
The Dyeing of the
Chicago River
Since 1962, the Chicago River has been transformed into a brilliant emerald green on parade morning — one of the most iconic sights in all of Chicago and a tradition recognized around the world.
Members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130 release an environmentally safe dye that creates the stunning green transformation, drawing hundreds of thousands to the riverbanks each year.
1962
Year the tradition began
400K+
Spectators each year
45 lbs
Of vegetable dye used
5 hrs
The river stays green
2027 Honorees
Meet this year's distinguished Grand Marshal and Guest of Honor
Grand Marshal
Rev. Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A.
Rev. Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A., has dedicated his life to serving others through faith, education, and community. A beloved figure in the Chicago Irish community, Father Tom has touched countless lives through his pastoral work and unwavering commitment to bringing people together. His leadership exemplifies the parade's theme of Faith, Peace & Unity.
Read Full BioGuest of Honor
The Shannon Rovers
Celebrating their 100th Anniversary — 1926-2026
Chicago's one and only Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band celebrates an extraordinary milestone in 2026 — their 100th anniversary. Founded in 1926, the Shannon Rovers have been an integral part of Chicago's Irish heritage and cultural identity for a century. Their stirring performances of traditional Irish music have graced countless events and celebrations, making them one of the most iconic Irish pipe bands in America.
Read More2027 Parade Queen
Claire Cahill
Congratulations to Claire Cahill, crowned the 2026 Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade Queen! Claire represents the best of Chicago's Irish-American community and will reign over the parade festivities.
Celebrate With Us
From the dyeing of the river to the grand parade, experience the best of Chicago's Irish celebrations
River Dyeing
March 14 · 9:00 AM
Watch as the Chicago River turns a brilliant shade of emerald green — a tradition since 1962.
The Parade
March 14 · 12:00 PM
The main event — floats, bands, marching groups, and more processing down Columbus Drive.
CBC Dinner
January 29 · Completed
The Annual Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner — a beloved tradition bringing the community together.
Queen Contest
Annual Tradition
Young women of Irish heritage compete for the honor of being crowned the Parade Queen.
What to Expect
Your guide to experiencing one of America's greatest parades
The Green River
Arrive early to see the river dyed emerald green from the Michigan Avenue bridge — it's a sight you'll never forget.
Bagpipes & Bands
Dozens of marching bands, Irish pipe bands, and musical groups fill the streets with the sounds of Ireland.
Over 100 Units
Floats, dance troupes, community organizations, and more create a spectacle stretching the length of Columbus Drive.
The Parade Queen
The crowned Parade Queen and her court ride in a place of honor, representing Chicago's Irish-American community.
Community Spirit
Families, friends, and strangers come together to share in the pride and joy of Irish heritage in Chicago.
Unforgettable Moments
From the green river to the final float, every moment is a photo opportunity you'll want to remember.
Our Proud Sponsors
Thank you to the organizations that make this celebration possible
Chicago Turns Green
Every March
Whether you're watching from the riverbank, lining Columbus Drive, or gathering with family at the CBC dinner — this is your celebration. See you on Parade Day.