CHICAGO. The Chicago River transformed into a vivid kelly green on Saturday as the city launched its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, continuing a tradition that has captivated locals and tourists for over six decades.
Despite chilly morning temperatures, thousands of spectators lined the riverwalk and packed the bridges, cheering as members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union Local 130 released the iconic dye into the water from boats. The tradition, which began in 1962, was originally discovered by accident when plumbers used a special dye to trace pollution sources in the river.
The dyeing process, which takes about 45 minutes, involves dispersing a secret powder-based dye that initially appears orange before mixing with the water to create the iconic emerald-green hue. While the exact formula remains undisclosed, organizers assure that it is environmentally safe and non-toxic.
A Symbol of Chicago’s Irish Heritage
The river dyeing event is a prelude to Chicago’s downtown St. Patrick’s Day parade, one of the largest Irish celebrations in the United States. This year, the parade featured traditional Irish music, bagpipers, dance troupes, and colorful floats, highlighting the city’s deep Irish-American roots.
St. Patrick’s Day, which officially falls on Monday, March 17, honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is credited with spreading Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century. The Chicago celebrations date back to 1843, when Irish immigrants first organized a local parade to commemorate the occasion.
A Lasting Green Glow
While the river remains a brilliant green for several hours, traces of the color can persist for a couple of days, depending on water flow and weather conditions. Chicago officials work closely with environmental agencies to ensure the process is safe for aquatic life and the ecosystem.
The tradition is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the country who want to witness the unique spectacle. Hotels, restaurants, and bars across the city also experience a surge in business, with many offering special St. Patrick’s Day menus, Irish-themed drinks, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
As Chicago continues to celebrate its Irish heritage, the glowing green river remains a beloved symbol of the city’s enduring St. Patrick’s Day spirit.
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
- Gary P Hernalhttps://tutubi.ph/author/gary-hernal/
- Gary P Hernalhttps://tutubi.ph/author/gary-hernal/
- Gary P Hernalhttps://tutubi.ph/author/gary-hernal/
- Gary P Hernalhttps://tutubi.ph/author/gary-hernal/
