Chicago Resumes 'Long-Standing Tradition' Ahead Of St. Patrick's Day

The Chicago River was dyed green after all.

Officials apparently pivoted from their original plan, which was to avoid coloring the water to discourage gatherings because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Chicago Plumbers Union Local 130 revealed Friday (March 12) that officials would not partake in the decades-long tradition of putting green dye into the Chicago River to mark St. Patrick’s Day, NBC Chicago reported at the time.

But Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced on Saturday (March 13) that Chicagoans were in luck.

“Happy St. Patrick's Day Weekend, Chicago!” Lightfoot tweeted, adding a clover emoji. “Although we didn’t gather, we were able to honor long-standing tradition by dyeing the Chicago River green, thanks to the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers. If you're heading out today, make sure to mask up and watch your distance.”

Though other events, including parades, have either canceled or transitioned to virtual formats because of the pandemic, it took about 20 minutes to observe the tradition of dyeing the river, according to NBC News.

“St. Patrick’s Day is one of greatest times of the year in Chicago, but as we enter the second year of this pandemic our celebration must look different than typical years,” Rosa Escareno, Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Commissioner, previously said in a statement. “We have to stay diligent and commit to the regulations that keep our community safe. I expect our businesses to rise to the occasion this weekend as they have throughout the pandemic, but we will be prepared to take enforcement action if necessary.”

Photos: Getty Images