St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Chicago saw the annual tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green, a beloved event drawing crowds downtown.

Led by the Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130, the river was transformed by their proprietary blend of vegetable-based dyes, a tradition dating back to 1962.

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The dyeing of the Chicago River has become synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States, but where did the tradition originate? The green dye was originally part of the city’s effort to clean up the river’s waterfront areas, which had long been a depository for Chicago’s waste. In 1962, Chicago city workers dumped 100 pounds of dye into the river flowing through downtown Chicago. It left the river emerald green for an entire week and kick-started an annual tradition. #stpatricksday #chicago #chicagoriver #greenriverchicago #downtownchicago #chicagotravel

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Thousands gathered along the riverbanks, capturing photos and videos as the green hue spread between Columbus Drive and Orleans Street. Initiated by Stephen Bailey, the union’s former business manager, the dyeing process, initially used to trace building leaks, has become a symbol of the city.

The dyeing, executed by a few motorboats, requires only 40 pounds of powdered dye, stirring it into a vibrant display that lasts several days.

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