Classic Auto Group’s Guide to the 2022 Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Mar 9, 2022

Today we’re sharing our tips and tricks about the St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2022, and best places to watch it along with other fun ways to celebrate the occasion! The Chicago St Paddy’s Day Parade is the largest one in the whole US, and we’re very proud of that fact. We’ll be covering where to catch the parade, more information about VIP access, and recommendations for local Irish eateries afterwards. It’s all right here on today’s blog

2022’s Guest of Honor is Kevin Byrne, the Consul General to the Midwestern US, and Patrick O’Donovan, the Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform with Special Responsibility for the Office of Public Works at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

The return of the 67th annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade will kick off at 12:15PM on Saturday March 12th, and in celebration of the first parade post-lockdowns the traditional beautiful Kelly green hued river will return! (If you’d like to catch the river dying, you’ll want to get a spot along the Michigan Avenue Bridge, between Columbus Drive and State Street before 10AM.)

Public transportation to and from the parade is recommended due to high volume of visitors and parade viewers. The parade will kick off at Grant Park before marching its way North on Columbus Drive between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive, so make sure you arrive early to get a prime spot! Entry to the parade route begins at 10AM and will only be allowed at Jackson Avenue and Ida B. Wells.

The Viewing Stand is located at the Buckingham Fountain. Grandstand seating is $60/seat to be purchased in advance, and the grand stand will open at 11:15AM. The 11th is the last day to purchase tickets, and it closes at 9AM; no refunds will be given, and ticket + ID is required for entry.

While Masks and COVID-19 Vaccination cards are not going to be required for parade entry, bu they are still recommended for personal safety and reduction of community spread. Security will be checking bags and personal items such as purses; note that coolers, alcohol of any kind, open beverages, and personal water bottles won’t be allowed.

In addition to the main event, two more annual St Patrick’s Day Celebrations are resuming their festivities this year! The Northwest Side Irish Parade will begin at 12PM in Norwood Park starting at the William J. Onahan School; the South Side Irish parade will walk through Beverly and Morgan Park, then head south from 103rd street and Western Avenue.

Fresh Shepherd’s Pie, Made in a Cast Iron Skillet

If you’re looking to continue the celebrations post parade and well into the next week, we recommend headin over to the following restaurants and bars on St Patrick’s Day the 17th for some official Irish meals and treats: