Check out the Best Local Spots in Chicago and the Suburbs Doing St. Paddy’s Day Right
It’s time again to chow corned beef sandwiches on rye bread and guzzle green beer—St. Patrick’s Day is here! Whether your roots are in Ireland or not, March 17 is the day to don your green apparel and let loose. These Best Local spots and events in Chicago and the suburbs will fill your holiday with the luck o’ the Irish.
Head out to the Michigan Ave. bridge for the traditional dyeing of the Chicago River! On March 15, trek to the bridge at 10am to witness the river run green with St. Pat’s pride. Beware: The crowd will be dense for this beloved annual affair. A 5-minute walk from Columbus Plaza in Streeterville!
After the river goes green, stick around downtown for the kickoff of the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade (along Columbus Dr., beginning at Balbo)! Another beloved downtown Chicago event, you’ll see all kinds of entertainment along the parade route, including Irish dancers, marching bands, musical acts, local groups, floats and more. A 16-minute ride on the 6 bus from Columbus Plaza!
Rather celebrate with food? Grab festive fare at Best Local Rockit Bar and Grill (22 W Hubbard St.) on March 15-16 from 8am-3pm. The holiday special is the St. Pat’s burger, which is a black Angus patty, corned beef, sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing on a pretzel bun. Try it with one of several drink specials too. A 4-minute walk from 400 N LaSalle in River North!
For a suburban celebration, head to Best Local Village Tavern (901 W Wise Rd.) for what’s known as the biggest bash in the Chicago suburbs for St. Patrick’s Day. This family-friendly affair begins at 10am on Monday, March 17 and includes live entertainment like DJs, karaoke, bagpipers and more. The authentic Irish food and drink will be plentiful, as will fun raffles and giveaways. An 11-minute drive from Park Meadows in Schaumburg!