How Does Chicago Turn Its River Green?

I was surprised when I found out how Chicago turns its river green for St. Patrick’s Day. It’s really not what I expected! I was thinking it involved a more difficult process than what actually takes place in order to make this happen. 

Thanks to Mayor Richard J. Daley, this is where the idea of turning the river green came about. Daley is of Irish-American descent and grew up in an Irish neighborhood in Chicago. 

Accidentally, the business manager of the plumber’s union came across the perfect shade of green on another plumber’s work overalls from a stain that was left from a previous plumbing job.

What is This Green Dye Used For in Plumbing?

This green dye is essentially something that plumbers use to detect leaks in buildings. Because of the bright green color, this allows plumbers to be able to see where the leak is coming from quicker and easier.

Chicago's plumbers use this green dye to find leaks like this one.
Chicago’s plumbers use this green dye to find leaks like this one.

Who Makes This Happen?

The Chicago Journeyman Plumbers Union come together to dump the dye into the Chicago river right before the St. Patrick’s Day parade takes place. Many people gather around to see the boats on the river to dump in the dye. 

At first, they used to dump around 100 pounds of this green dye, leaving the river green for a week. Now, they only use about 40 pounds of dye which lasts a few days and is more environmentally friendly because of the vegetable-base of the dye. 

Depending on the weather during the event, this will sway how long the dye sticks around in the river. By depleting the amount of dye they are using also helps with only altering the river’s color for a few days. 

Why the Chicago River?

Chicago is one of several cities in America that had tons of Irish immigrants in the 1800s. Around one-fifth of the population in 1850 was Irish. Eventually the unofficial parade that took place quickly became an official city celebration for the Irish heritage in Chicago. 

It wasn’t until 1962 that the plumbers dyed the river green for the first time.

green river in chicago

Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, dying the Chicago river green for St. Patricks Day is an event that thousands of people look forward to. But, how cool is it that the idea for the green dye came from a plumber’s union?

Call 1-Tom-Plumber 

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need any plumbing or drain cleaning help. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. 

We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

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