Complete Guide to the Green River
When Will the Chicago River Turn Green in 2025?
The River will be dyed green on Saturday, March 15, 2025, according to historical trends of the scheduling. The event coincides with the city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which takes place the weekend before March 17. City officials usually confirm dates by February, so follow updates on Chicagodowntown.org as the event nears.
This timing lets locals and visitors experience the river dyeing and the parade on the same day. Although the actual St. Patrick’s Day is on Monday in 2025, big celebrations — including the dyeing of the river — happen on the preceding Saturday to maximize weekend attendance. Extreme weather can make conditions difficult or cause the event to be delayed.
How Do Plumbers Turn the River Green?
The Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 leads the dyeing process. They use boats to spread a powdered, vegetable-based dye over the water.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Two boats pour orange-colored powder into the river at DuSable Bridge.
- A third boat stirs the mixture, revealing bright green as the powder dissolves.
- The dye spreads naturally, coloring the river from Columbus Drive to the Chicago Lock.
This method takes 45 minutes. The river stays green for 24–48 hours, depending on water flow and sunlight.
The union first dyed the river green in 1962. The “secret formula” originated as a leak-detection tool. Today, the Environmental Protection Agency approves the dye for safety.
Best Places to Watch the Chicago River Dyeing
Upper Wacker Drive offers prime views between Columbus Drive and Fairbanks Court. Arrive by 9 a.m. to secure spots along railings.
Alternative Viewing Areas:
- DuSable Riverwalk (closed on lower level): Arrive early if upper sections open.
- Merchandise Mart: Less crowded option with river access.
Public transit avoids traffic. Use CTA trains or buses to Clark/Lake or Washington/Wells stations. Check nbcchicago.com for real-time updates.
How Long Is the Chicago River Green?
The river normally glows green for 1–2 days. The window is shortened or extended by flow speed, wind, and/or weather. Stop by within a day for the most striking effect.
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In 2023, overcast skies extended the color to 48 hours. It faded in 18 hours in bright sunlight in 2017. Check a live camera feed on Chicagodowntown.org before visiting.
s the Green Dye Safe?
Yes. Illinois EPA deems dye as non-toxic. The formula has plant-based ingredients and is compliant with federal water safety standards.
Friends of the Chicago River once criticized the tradition. In 2024, the group shifted focus to pollution prevention, acknowledging the dye’s minimal ecological harm.
The city tests the water quality before and after the dyeing process. No long-term impacts occur.
St. Patrick’s Day Events in Chicago
The parade starts at 12:15 p.m. on March 15. Floats, bands, and dancers travel from Grant Park to Columbus Drive. Wear waterproof shoes—crowds reach 10,000+ people.
Other Festivities:
- South Side Irish Parade: Family-focused event in Beverly.
- Shamrock Shuffle 8K: Downtown race starting at 8:30 a.m.
- Celtic Music Concerts: Performances at Chicago Symphony Center.
Combine the river dyeing (10 a.m.) and parade (12:15 p.m.) for a full day. Book brunch nearby at The Dearborn or Lou Mitchell’s to avoid crowds.
Can You Help Dye the River?
Only union plumbers handle dyeing. However, you can:
- Volunteer with cleanup crews: Groups like the Chicago Parks Foundation need post-event help.
- Support Local 130: Buy their merchandise or donate to their scholarship fund.
- Promote sustainability: Join Friends of the Chicago River’s cleanup programs (chicagoriver.org)
A Few Last Tips for Visitors
- Arrive by 8:30 a.m.: Lines will start to form early.
- Bundle up: March averages 40°F (4°C).
- Record video: The color change from orange to green freaks some people out the first time.
Chicago’s green river, whether you’re local or traveling, is an iconic marker of spring. Join this 63-year tradition — plan for 2025 now!
For more updates, follow @Chicagodowntown on social media or check out Chicagodowntown.org
