<p>In honor of the city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/destination/chicago" target="_blank">Chicago</a> River is dyed green at 9 a.m. on the morning of the parade—always held the Saturday prior to or coinciding with the holiday. (<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/explorers-guide-7" target="_blank">See Chicago like a Nat Geo Explorer.</a>)</p>

Chicago, Illinois

In honor of the city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the Chicago River is dyed green at 9 a.m. on the morning of the parade—always held the Saturday prior to or coinciding with the holiday. (See Chicago like a Nat Geo Explorer.)

Photograph by Raymond Boyd/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Colorful St. Patrick's Day celebrations around the world

From the London Eye to the Great Pyramids, see iconic landmarks turn green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.

Every year on March 17, people around the globe celebrate Irish culture and heritage with food, drink, and lively parades in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. From the emerald waters of Chicago River to the lights of the Sydney opera house, see how these 10 cities transform their landmarks for this beloved holiday. (17 pictures that transport you to Ireland.)

This article was originally published in 2016 and updated in 2019.
Book your next trip with Peace of Mind
Search Trips

Read This Next

How to eat in 6 of the world’s most stunning places
Cliff art reveals the majesty of the Amazon’s aquatic realm

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet