Chicago St. Patrick's Day: More Green Than a Leprechaun's Wallet
St. Patrick's Day in Chicago is not just a holiday; it's a full-blown spectacle. Think of it as Mardi Gras, but with more green and less purple, and way less questionable costumes. So, if you're planning to immerse yourself in a sea of green beer and even greener river water, let's dive into what you absolutely must do.
The River Runs Green: A Dyed-in-the-Wool Tradition
Okay, so maybe dyeing a river green isn't the most environmentally friendly thing, but it's Chicago, baby! Every St. Patrick's Day, the Chicago River magically transforms into a vibrant emerald hue. It’s like someone accidentally spilled a giant vat of green Kool-Aid, but in a really cool way. Pro tip: Get a good spot early. It's a popular show, and we mean popular.
Parade Time: A Marching Madness
The Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade is not your average parade. This is a spectacle of marching bands, Irish dancers, floats that would make Mardi Gras jealous, and, of course, plenty of green. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Mayor turning the river green from a float. Just don't expect him to toss you any candy.
Pub Crawl: Slainte!
No St. Patrick's Day celebration is complete without a good old-fashioned pub crawl. Chicago is home to countless Irish pubs, each with its own unique charm. From cozy neighborhood joints to bustling downtown hotspots, there's a pub for every taste (and tolerance level). Just remember, drink responsibly, or you might end up waking up in a taxi with a questionable souvenir.
Food Glorious Food: Corned Beef and Cabbage, Anyone?
While green beer might be the drink of choice, let's not forget about the food. Corned beef and cabbage is the classic St. Patrick's Day meal, but Chicago offers so much more. From Irish stews to fish and chips, your taste buds will be doing the Irish jig.
After the Party: Recover in Style
After a day of revelry, you'll need to recharge. Chicago has plenty of options for post-St. Patrick's Day recovery. Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day, explore the city's world-class museums, or simply relax with a good book. Just remember to stay hydrated!
How to... St. Patrick's Day Survival Guide
How to survive the crowds? Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a good attitude.How to find the best pub crawl? Check online for reviews and recommendations, or ask a local.How to avoid a green beer hangover? Pace yourself, drink plenty of water, and eat something greasy.How to dress for the occasion? Green, green, and more green! But don't go overboard.How to have fun? Embrace the spirit of the holiday, enjoy the festivities, and make some memories.