We all know the St. Patrick’s Day green river dyeing in Chicago is a beloved tradition. There’s a reason people come from all over the world to see the Chicago River famously turn an emerald color to celebrate the holiday—it’s truly one of the most exciting events of St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
And it’s all thanks to the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union, who add the special dye to the water, creating a stunning green spectacle.
When is the Green River Dyeing in Chicago?
The Green River Dyeing in Chicago will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025, starting at 10:00 a.m. In the morning, the Chicago Plumbers Union Local 130 will transform the river into a bright green using a vegetable-based and environmentally friendly dye.
Where can I watch the Green River Dyeing in Chicago?
For the best views of the Green River along the Chicago River, head to Upper Wacker Drive between Columbus and Fairbanks. If you want to view the Green River Dyeing from higher ground, there are a ton of rooftop restaurants and hotels where you can watch the Green River Dyeing in Chicago.
LondonHouse Chicago
LondonHouse Chicago will once again host one of the city’s most exclusive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Guests will enjoy a front-row view of the iconic Green River Dyeing in Chicago from its LH Rooftop and LH on 21 indoor lounges. For the celebrations, there will be an open bar from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. with bottomless green beer, mimosas, and cocktails, alongside a selection of breakfast bites to fuel the celebration.
Ticket: $225+
The Royal Sonesta
The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown is one of the best places to watch the Green River Dyeing in Chicago. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of both the State Street and Michigan Avenue sides of the river while relaxing in the Penthouse lounge, unwinding on the outdoor terrace, and enjoying party favors, DJs, and more. A breakfast buffet will be offered, featuring a selection of dishes complemented by an open bar with spirits, wine, green beer, and an array of Irish-inspired craft cocktails.
Tickets: $255
Miru
Miru happens to be one of the best places to watch the Green River Dyeing in Chicago, and lucky for us, they’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Party. Tickets include a four-hour bar offering select liquors, beer, wine, specialty cocktails, a variety of Japanese food stations, and live DJ entertainment from one of their two expansive terraces. If you prefer to stay warm, our dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows providing panoramic views.
Tickets: General admission tickets are available for $175 per person
Pizzeria Portofino
The best seats to watch the Green River Dyeing are at Pizzeria Portofino! Tickets include cocktails, delicious appetizers, an array of pizzas, and tunes from a live DJ.
Tickets: General admission tickets are available for $175 per person.
Hoyt’s Chicago
Join the festivities at Hoyt’s Chicago on Saturday, March 15, from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m—it’s one of the best places to watch the Green River Dyeing happens to be free. Enjoy flowing green beer during the ground-level river dyeing celebrations, where music, Irish-inspired dishes, cocktails, and more await. There will be Irish-inspired delights such as corned beef sandwiches and Irish nachos. DJs will kick off the festivities starting at 8 a.m.
Tickets: Free
Beatnik on the River
Grab front-row seats to watch the Green River Dyeing in Chicago at Beatnik on the River. Tickets include a homebase table along the River Terrace for up to 10 people, two bottles (choice of tequila, vodka, or whiskey, and a bottle of sparkling), and St. Patrick’s food specials!
Tickets: Buy tickets here
Raised | An Urban Rooftop Bar
Looking for an unforgettable way to watch the Green River Dyeing in Chicago? Head to Raised for the ultimate rooftop party overlooking the Chicago River. You’ll have a front-row seat to one of the city’s most iconic traditions, along with unlimited green beer, mimosas, St. Patrick’s Day cocktails, and a breakfast buffet. And don’t forget a live bagpiper, along with a DJ.
Tickets: Buy tickets here
Chicago Boat Company
If you’re looking for unique ways to watch the Green River Dyeing, make sure to consider the Chicago Boat Company! It starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, once the Chicago River is officially dyed green! Book a Hot Tub Boat, a luxury heated Duffy Boat, or a Cycle Boat cruise and sail the river.