Blue Skies Ahead: Green Chicago River, European Film Festival and Flamenco Festival

The long awaited time of year is upon us — St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Chicago. As one of the biggest celebrations the city has to offer, we’ve compiled a list of events making it easy for you to join in on the festivities. 

Head downtown for Chicago’s crown jewel and see the dyeing of the Chicago River in honor of the Irish holiday. Stick around afterwards for the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

If St. Patty’s doesn’t pique your interest, visit the Flamenco festival in the Loop or attend the European film festival highlight.

European film festival highlight — Poland: Until March 20

The Chicago European Film Festival at the Gene Siskel Film Center will focus on Poland for its 28th spotlight, showing new and classic films from Polish filmmakers and providing Polish concessions. Located near Grant Park, general admission is $50.

Flamenco Festival: Until March 24

Celebrate Spanish and Hispanic heritage in the city with the 23rd year of the Flamenco Festival, with various venues located throughout the loop. Visitors can attend Flamenco performances, workshops, lectures, films and other events. Ticket prices for select activities vary.

70th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade: March 15

One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country, Chicago’s 70th annual procession complete with Irish step dancers and The Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band, travels along North Columbus Drive and can be watched between East Balbo Drive and East Monroe Street near Grant Park.

Dyeing of the Chicago River: March 15

The time-honored Chicago tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green on St. Patrick’s Day is back for its 63rd year. The public can watch as the Chicago Fire Department transforms the river from its usual gray to a vibrant green while perched on Upper West Wacker Drive and various bridges, with some of the best viewing spots being between North State Street and North Columbus Drive.

Beatles-themed Purim carnival and Spiel: March 16

The Anshe Emet Synagogue, four miles south of the Lake Shore Campus, will put on a Beatles-themed Purim Carnival and Spiel this weekend with a plethora of events spanning from Thursday to Sunday. While the main carnival is on Sunday specifically, attendees can participate in Purim Megillah night March 13, a pancake breakfast March 14 and a late night stay in the synagogue for children grades 7-12 March 15.

St. Patrick’s Fest at Irish American Heritage Center: March 15
After spending the morning watching the Chicago River turn green and listening to the melodic tunes of the Emerald Isle, head to the Irish American Heritage Center located at 4626 N. Knox Ave. at 1 p.m. for their St. Patrick’s Fest. For $15 to $20, visitors donning shades of shamrock can enjoy Irish music, dance and kids’ activities.