Each year, there are a handful of tried and true events that guarantee crowds in the hundreds of thousands and promise an experience like no other: New Year’s Eve in Times Square; Mardi Gras in New Orleans, and the Super Bowl.  And yet, even fewer celebrations are as unique as St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago.

Chicago River Dyeing

Roughly 400,000 spectators, from Naperville, Clarendon Hills, and Wilmette and beyond are expected to visit the Riverwalk for the annual Chicago River Dyeing which became a fast-favorite tradition a half century ago.  Beginning at 9:00am on Saturday, March 14^th the Chicago River will hold its Emerald Green hue for about five hours.  If you’re looking to get a glimpse of the green, the best viewing spots are East side of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, West side of the Columbus Drive Bridge, and along the banks of the Chicago Riverwalk between Michigan Avenue & Columbus Drive.  

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Hand in hand with the Chicago River Dyeing, and one of the country’s largest, The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will start at 12pm on Saturday, March 14^th.  This free admission event is proudly in it’s 65^th year celebrating Love, Loyalty, and Friendship.  

Leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, Theater on the Lake is home to Chicago’s largest St. Patrick’s Day party on March 6^th.  The 45^th Annual Forever Green event has a philanthropic focus and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities while guests are treated to authentic, live, Irish entertainment!

If it’s something more intimate you seek, and celebrating in the comfort of your Evanston or Long Grove home is more your speed, grab some green bagels and coffee, stock up on Jameson, Guinness, and Smithwicks, and treat your guests to a classic Irish Coffee Bar or try out A Nutty Irishman served up by our crowd-pleasing Party Host Helpers servers and bartenders!

Party Host Helpers proudly serves the Chicago area on St. Patrick’s Day and every other day of the year. So if you are looking for staff for hire, contact us today! Regional Director Rebecca will connect you with the right party staff for your event in Oak Park, Roscoe Village, Bridgeport, and beyond.