Every year, since 1962, the Chicago river turns green in the honor of St. Patrick’s Day.
Thousands of locals and tourists, some drunk and dressed in their best green attire, visited the River yesterday, to rejoice in the tradition, which was started by the members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union who dumped 100 pounds of green dye into the river. Since then, the city has marked the tradition of dyeing the river green every Saturday, before St. Patrick’s Day, coinciding with its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Here are some pictures of this year’s celebration.
Throughout the day, many locals and tourists ride boats to witness the green Chicago river more closely. Photo: Ankit Khadgi
A couple holding hands as they walk across the bridge during the St. Patrick’s annual festival. Photo: Ankit KhadgiA boat traveling through the green-dyed river. This tradition of dyeing the river was started in 1962 by Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union. Photo: Ankit Khadgi
People take selfies in front of the green river. Photo: Ankit Khadgi
A person covering their body with the flag of Ireland as they watch the river. Photo: Ankit Khadgi
Along with the river turning green, the city also hosts its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, every Saturday, before St. Patrick’s Day. Photo: Ankit Khadgi
Drinking alcohol is an integral part of the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Photo: Ankit Khadgi
Ankit Khadgi (MAVCS 2024) is a Nepali journalist based in Chicago. His work has appeared in several publications, including the Guardian, the Kathmandu Post, and the Gaysi Family.
