The Best St. Patrick's Day Events in Chicago

Chicago is home to plenty o' Irish men and women, but on St. Patrick's Day, the whole city turns green, including the Chicago River!

No matter what your idea of a fun St. Patrick's Day holiday is, Chicago has a variety of options to keep even the ficklest of leprechauns smiling.

Two main attractions, always certain to draw a huge crowd are the annual Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade and the annual South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade. There's some debate between Chicagoans at to which parade is the "real" St. Patrick's Day parade, but one thing is certain, whether you attend one or both, you'll have a fabulous time!

The Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade starts off on Columbus between Balbo and Jackson at 12 p.m. on St. Patrick's Day (March 17.) The event is free and parade watchers are encouraged to arrive early for prime viewing spots.

If you'd like to watch another Chicago St. Patrick's Day tradition prior to the parade, make time to view the annual transformation of the Chicago River as it turns a spectacular shade of vibrant green. This modern day "miracle" can be seen at 10:30 a.m. on March 17 and is best viewed from the upper level bridges on Michigan Avenue or Columbus Drive.

The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade is typically held the weekend prior to St. Patrick's Day (in 2007, the parade will be held on Sunday March 11, beginning at 12 p.m.) The parade runs along Western from 103^rd to 114^th. The event is free. Parade watchers are encouraged to arrive early for prime viewing spots, and those who are interested in a special experience, starting at 8:30 a.m., St. Catetan Church on 112^th and Artesian hosts a gathering of Irish songs and music followed by mass.

If parades aren't your cup of ale, perhaps a visit to an Irish pub will fit the bill for your St. Patrick's Day celebration. Chicago is filled the brim with options, but a few popular destinations are:

Fado on 100 West Grand Avenue, offers an interesting variety of décor imported from Ireland, a variety of authentic dishes, and a full bar.