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.

Duffs Bar and Grill on 420 ½ West Diversey Parkway is a splendid combination of an old world Irish pub and a modern day bar and grill.

Celtic Crossings on 751 North Clark Street is possibly the most authentic Dublin-like pub in Chicago. Features a full bar with thirteen beers on tap and a lively atmosphere.

Cork & Kerry on 10614 South Western Avenue boasts authentic Irish décor, an outdoor garden, and well-stocked bar.

5^th Providence Club on 4626 North Knox Avenue is a unique pub operated by the Irish American Heritage Center, offering folk music, authentic dishes, and a full bar.

Another great stop on your St. Patrick's Day list of things to do is Chicago is a visit to Forever Green at Navy Pier. Held in the Grand Ballroom on St. Patrick's Day from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., this celebration features Irish music live performances, Irish dancers, and an open bar. Proceeds from the event benefit Chicago area charities including the Special Olympics and the Snow City Arts Foundation. Tickets are $30 in advance, $40 at the door for general admission, and $60 in advance, $70 at the door for the VIP lounge. Call (773) 348-5499 for more information.

Nature lovers will enjoy the Celtic celebration and dinner hosted by The Mortum Arboretum. From 5 pm. To 9 p.m. on March 17, the event features a Scottish, Irish, and Wales buffet along with music, dance, and folk-tales. Visitors can also take free guided walk tours and plant some genuine shamrock seeds to take home. Reservations are required, $35 for members and $42 for non-members. Call (630) 725-2066 for more information.

If the above traditional Irish fare and festivities do not appeal to you, you'll still find a variety of things to do on St. Patrick's Day in Chicago. Catch a movie, play, or dinner theatre production. Dine at any one of Chicago's fabulous restaurants or visit one of the amazing museums.

You'll never be at a loss for activities on St. Patrick's Day in Chicago!