Chicago will host a wide range of events this weekend, including the annual river dyeing and South Side Irish Parade, according to a March 12 announcement. In addition to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, residents can participate in activities such as a spring tree giveaway, environmental fairs, art exhibits, and family-friendly gatherings across the city.
The variety of events provides options for those seeking alternatives to traditional St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Activities include community workshops, cultural performances, markets featuring local vendors, and opportunities for volunteering and learning new skills.
On Thursday, Goose Island’s Pub at the Salt Shed will celebrate 312 Day with free Italian beef sandwiches and discounted draft beer. The Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange will also hold its Community Mending Night in Auburn Gresham for those interested in repairing clothing items.
Friday features several art openings: Eve Beatrice’s photography exhibit at the Leather Archives & Museum in Edgewater and Kelly White’s photojournalism display at Beverly Arts Center. The Chicago Art Department will host its first drag show party with proceeds supporting the Midwest Immigration Bond Fund.
Saturday offers family activities such as MCA Chicago’s Family Day with a lost-and-found theme and the Edgewater Indoor Market’s final winter event at Broadway Armory Park. Other highlights include an immigrant justice volunteer fair in Lakeview, a spring tree giveaway on the East Side, classical music performances by Chicago Symphony Orchestra musicians in Beverly, and the Englewood Sings! Festival showcasing local choirs.
Sunday includes unique experiences like an early morning tour of the U-505 submarine at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park, Reuse-a-Palooza at The Plant for recycling household items, a stationery market in Albany Park, breakdancing workshops in Englewood, Books On Tap at Pilot Project Brewery in Logan Square, and a knitting group gathering at Swedish American Museum in Andersonville.
These events reflect Chicago’s diverse cultural scene and offer residents multiple ways to engage with their communities throughout the weekend.
