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SINCE 1962 CHICAGO has been dyeing its river green for St Patrick’s Day.
The practice was started by the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers’ Union Local 130 52 years ago, when green dye was used to detect waste leaks into the river.
Kayakers float on the Chicago River after it was dyed green ahead of yesterday's St. Patrick's Day parade in Chicago AP / Press Association Images
AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images
Saturday 16 November, 2024
Saturday 16 November, 2024
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Timelapse video shows Chicago turning the river green
SINCE 1962 CHICAGO has been dyeing its river green for St Patrick’s Day.
The practice was started by the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers’ Union Local 130 52 years ago, when green dye was used to detect waste leaks into the river.
The idea to turn the whole river green for St Patrick’s Day was born when the business manager of the plumbers’ union Steven Bailey spotted a workman whose overalls had been stained with the green dye.
Bailey suggested the idea to the mayor at the time, Richard J Daley, who gave it the go ahead.
These days staff from Local 130 are still responsible for the task.
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chicago river Green Paddy's Day Parade St Patrick's Day turning the river green