Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day weekend once again brought huge crowds, bright green water, and nonstop energy to the city. On Saturday, one of the city’s most famous traditions returned as the Chicago River was dyed green at 10 a.m, followed by the downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Columbus Drive at 12:15 p.m. The river dying has been a Chicago tradition since 1962, while the city’s St.Patrick’s Day parade dates back to the 1800’s, making it one of the most recognized holiday celebrations in the country. 

This year, thousands of people lined the bridges and sidewalks to watch members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 turn the river its famous emerald green. The bright color only lasts for just a few hours, which makes the event feel even more special for the people lucky enough to see it in person. 

“Seeing the river dyed in person was so cool. Being able to see it happen and become such a bright green color shocked me. I was happy I went and was able to go downtown to celebrate with my friends,” said Michael Mayerhofer, senior. 

For many students, the weekend was a chance to take part in one of Chicago’s most unique traditions. Some went downtown early to grab a good view of the river, while many students skipped the dying river and saw the parade instead. 

“My group of friends made sure that we were able to go down town early because we wanted to get good spots for the parade. I thought it was good, it wasn’t my first time seeing it so it was fun to be able to do it again,” said Paige Quirk, senior. 

Even students who didn’t go downtown still found ways to celebrate over the weekend. Some spent time with family, wore green, or followed the celebrations online and on social media. 

“Even though I didn’t go to the city this year, it was fun to spend time with my family,”said Kendall Brower, freshman. “We always make sure to have friends and family over. I also was able to celebrate my birthday over the weekend which was so much fun. I’m hoping next year will be able to celebrate downtown.”

With one of the city’s most iconic traditions over the weekend, St. Patrick’s Day once again proved that it’s such a major celebration in Chicago. From the famous green river to the downtown parade, the holiday gave students and families a chance to be a part of a tradition.