There are two types of Chicagoans this weekend: those who embrace the St. Patrick’s Day mayhem downtown and those who stay far, far away. Whether you bleed green or are looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, here are nine ways to enjoy all that this festive weekend has to offer.
On March 11, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that the river dyeing and both parades are postponed, due to COVID-19 concerns. Navy Pier also canceled their Holi celebration. Please check each event’s website for the latest updates.
PAWS Chicago’s 14th Annual Animal Magnetism
March 13
Morgan Manufacturing
This popular event raises money to save the lives of homeless pets. Dog-friendly (and encouraged), guests can sip on cocktails while their pet visits the “Dog Spa,” take memorable photos together in the photo booth and more.
Chicago River Dyeing & Parade
March 14
Dyeing: Chicago River
Parade: N Colombus Drive
This Chicago St. Patrick’s Day tradition continues along with the St. Patrick’s Day parade the same day. Wondering what makes the river green? We have the scoop.
Chicago Beer Festival
March 14
Field Museum
Sip on seasonal beers from more than 70 local and domestic breweries, sample food, listen to music, and explore the Field Museum during this popular festival.
St Paddy’s 5K and 8K Run/Walk
March 14
One Cannon Drive at Fullerton Parkway, Chicago
It will be a sea of green along the lakefront on Saturday morning during the St Paddy’s 5K and 8K Run/Walk, benefitting The Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Global Connections: Holi
March 14
Navy Pier
The free event celebrates the colorful Holi tradition, a Hindu spring festival celebrated in India and Nepal, with dancing, music, food and of course, plenty of vibrant color.
“The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”
March 15
Evanston Dance Ensemble
The Evanston Dance Ensemble concludes its 23rd season with a fresh reprise of an audience-favorite from their repertory, “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.” This unforgettable production brings the fantastical characters and the magical world of Narnia to life with soaring music, beautiful costumes, and exhilarating dance.
More Can’t-Miss Events:
- The 6th Annual 70mm Festival continues this weekend at The Music Box, featuring cult hits such as Hello Dolly! and Tron, plus new releases including Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
- Catch the last performance of the musical adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, Emma, at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
- Officially the more family-friendly Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade, the South Side Irish Parade is celebrating 41 years on March 15. Kicks off at noon at 103rd & Western.
For even more fun things to do around Chicago…
…check out our 31 of the Best Things to Do in Chicago This March article, discover 6 Ways to Go Green in Chicago or visit our Events Calendar.
Macaire Douglas lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and two sons, and covers the Weekend 101 and monthly Recommended Events features. She proudly supports Save Abandoned Babies Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to prevent the illegal abandonment of newborns nationwide. Since its inception in 2000, more than 3,600 newborns have been safely surrendered and adopted into loving homes.
