Date: March 13, 2010
Cost: Free
Organizer: City of Chicago
What to expect: Exuberant (if chilly) performers and plenty of green everywhere downtown.
Why to go: The Green River. Okay, it's not part of the official parade, but it's something to see.
Additional info: Did you know that the parade is sponsored by the Chicago Plumbers Union 130 U.A? Yeah, we didn't either. What we do know: The parade begins at Columbus and Balbo and heads north. The viewing stand is at Buckingham Fountain. It's generally a grand old time (thanks, in no small part, to 50 floats and 2,000 Irish step dancers), and is followed by a long day of partying at many downtown bars and clubs. Start the day even earlier by arriving at the Michigan Avenue or Columbus Bridge at 10:45 a.m. to watch as the river turns green.
Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein
