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# South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade – Chicago's Family-Friendly Irish Celebration

The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago, IL, is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich Irish heritage of the community. This annual event, held on Western Avenue around 111th Street, has evolved into a family-friendly gathering that attracts thousands of attendees each year. Originally founded to celebrate Irish culture, the parade has grown to include various community organizations, local businesses, and festive activities that highlight the spirit of the South Side. Reviews often mention the parade's transformation into a more organized and enjoyable experience, making it a must-visit for families and those looking to embrace the Irish spirit in Chicago.

## History
### The story of South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade
The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade was established to celebrate the Irish-American community in Chicago, particularly in the Beverly neighborhood. The founding vision was to create a festive and inclusive event that honored Irish culture and traditions. Over the years, the parade has become a significant part of the local identity, drawing participants and spectators from across the city and beyond.

### Milestones and growth
- **First Parade**: The inaugural parade took place in 1981, marking the beginning of a cherished tradition.
- **Community Expansion**: Over the years, the event has expanded to include various local organizations, schools, and businesses, fostering a sense of community.
- **Family-Friendly Focus**: In recent years, the parade has shifted towards a more family-friendly atmosphere, with stricter regulations on alcohol consumption and behavior.
- **Resilience**: After a hiatus due to the pandemic, the parade returned with renewed enthusiasm, showcasing its commitment to safety and community spirit.

### Cultural and local influence
The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade has had a profound impact on the local culture, serving as a platform for Irish heritage and community pride. It has fostered connections among residents and visitors alike, promoting local businesses and traditions. The parade also highlights the importance of family values, as many attendees bring their children to experience the festivities and learn about their Irish roots.

### Continuing the tradition
As the parade continues to evolve, organizers remain committed to preserving its cultural significance while adapting to the changing needs of the community. The focus on creating a safe and enjoyable environment for families has ensured that the parade remains a beloved tradition for generations to come. Efforts to engage local schools and organizations further strengthen the ties between the parade and the community.

## Community
### Community involvement
The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade thrives on community involvement, with numerous local organizations participating in the event. Schools, sports teams, and cultural groups often showcase their pride by marching in the parade, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Local businesses also play a vital role, sponsoring floats and providing refreshments to attendees, fostering a sense of camaraderie among residents.

### Community notion about the place
Residents of the Beverly neighborhood and surrounding areas view the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade as a cherished tradition that embodies their Irish heritage. Many families have attended the parade for years, passing down the experience to younger generations. The parade is seen as a celebration of community spirit, where neighbors come together to enjoy the festivities and support one another.

### Events and gatherings
In addition to the parade itself, various events and gatherings occur throughout the day, including pre-parade parties and post-parade celebrations at local bars and restaurants. These events provide opportunities for attendees to socialize, enjoy traditional Irish food and drink, and continue the festivities long after the parade has concluded. The sense of community is palpable, as families and friends gather to celebrate their shared heritage.

## Offerings
### What South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade offers
The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade offers a unique experience that combines cultural celebration with community engagement. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere filled with colorful floats, marching bands, and local organizations showcasing their pride. The parade is designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities in a safe environment.

### Dining and food experience
While the parade itself does not focus on dining, the surrounding neighborhood boasts a variety of restaurants and bars that offer traditional Irish cuisine. Attendees can indulge in classic dishes such as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie, and Irish soda bread. Many local establishments also provide special menus and promotions during the parade, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

### Events and packages
Various events and packages are available for those looking to enhance their parade experience. Local bars often offer special deals for groups, including transportation packages that provide convenient access to the parade route. Additionally, some establishments host pre-parade brunches or post-parade parties, allowing attendees to celebrate in style.

### Facilities and features
- **Parade Route**: The parade takes place along Western Avenue, providing ample space for spectators.
- **Family-Friendly Activities**: Organizers prioritize family-friendly features, including designated areas for children.
- **Security Measures**: Enhanced security measures ensure a safe environment for all attendees, with a focus on responsible behavior.
- **Community Engagement**: Local organizations and schools actively participate, fostering a sense of pride and involvement.

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade highlight a mix of positive experiences and areas for improvement. Many attendees appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and the sense of community, while others express concerns about crowd control and accessibility.

### Compliments and strengths
- **Family-Friendly Environment**: Many reviews commend the parade's transformation into a more family-oriented event, making it suitable for all ages.
- **Community Spirit**: Attendees often mention the strong sense of community and pride among participants and spectators.
- **Improved Organization**: Recent efforts to enhance organization and safety have been positively received, contributing to a more enjoyable experience.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
- **Crowd Control Issues**: Some reviews mention challenges with crowd control, particularly in areas with limited access to the parade route.
- **Alcohol Regulations**: While many appreciate the focus on reducing alcohol consumption, some attendees feel that it detracts from the traditional parade atmosphere.
- **Varied Experiences**: Individual experiences can vary widely, with some attendees enjoying the festivities while others find them lacking in excitement.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade is viewed as a valuable community event that celebrates Irish heritage while fostering a sense of togetherness. While there are areas for improvement, the parade's commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for families has garnered positive feedback from many attendees.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade is located in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, specifically along Western Avenue near 111th Street. This area is known for its rich Irish heritage and vibrant community spirit. Nearby attractions include local parks, historical sites, and a variety of dining options that reflect the cultural diversity of the neighborhood. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, enjoying the festive atmosphere and engaging with local businesses that contribute to the parade's success.

## FAQs
**What is the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade** It is an annual celebration of Irish heritage in Chicago's Beverly neighborhood.

**When does the parade take place** The parade is typically held on the weekend before St. Patrick's Day.

**Is the parade family-friendly** Yes, the parade has been designed to be a family-friendly event with activities for all ages.

**Are there any restrictions on alcohol** Yes, there are regulations in place to limit alcohol consumption during the parade.

**How can I get to the parade** Public transportation options are available, including buses and trains that service the area.

## Visit South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade Today
The South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and community spirit in Chicago. With its rich history, family-friendly atmosphere, and commitment to safety, the parade offers a unique experience for attendees of all ages. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, join the festivities and immerse yourself in the warmth and camaraderie of this beloved tradition. Experience the joy of community, the excitement of the parade, and the rich heritage that makes this event a must-see in Chicago.

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We took 3 buses (!) and a helpful bus driver directed us to Western and Longwood. We walked up the LONG hill and found a spot in the sun. It was populated but not super crowded. We wanted to find a spot near a bar. (thankfully the Nationalist posters were either gone or yet to appear). The neighborhood is a good mix of businesses and residences, and some smart cookies brought lawn chairs. Except for one drunk guy hanging out the window yelling (silly stuff) everyone was festive, patient, and the kids got candy. The devotion to schools, unions and veterans was touching, so that when the occasional political figure emerged (Hi Lori!) or a corporation made a float, we didn't mind too much. I will post pictures later.

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I experienced my first (still debating if its going to be my only) south side irish parade two years ago. The only thing I really remembered about the parade itself was the little men wearing the little hats driving the little carpet cars. Bizarre, but memorable none the less! As for the rest of the "party" it was craziness. First there was taking the METRA down to the south side. Everyone on the train was drunk. There was no organization. I had no idea how to get a ticket or if I even needed one. Turns out I didnt need one, everyone rode free that day. At the train stop, I had a bit of ways to walk to get to the parade route. While watching the parade, everyone around me was having a good time. Then again they were all drunk. And they were smoking. Did I happen to mention I cant drink and hate smokers? Yah......totally not my scene but I wanted to check out what all the hype was about. I did have a good time with the company I was with. Everyone was nice and my bf had the hook up with a family friend who owns a shop on the route, so we had access to a bathroom and didnt have to resort to pissing in alleyways. THANK GOD. I heard last year CPD didnt allow drinking on the streets. Maybe that helps in taming the chaos?

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Evidently, I'm not the only one still in mourning over the untimely death of the SSIP. Oh sweet, sweet SSIP. As the wife of a 100% Irish firefighter, it will probably come as no surprise that we are highly disappointed that our children won't grow up experiencing the chaotic insanity of this (belated) long-standing tradition. In my younger, more intoxicated years, I was, in fact, one of the many drunken people lining the streets, cheering on the floats, full of joy and unabashed merriment. Once our son came along, we bundled him up accordingly, strapped him into the baby carrier secure against my body, passed on the alcohol entirely, and snagged our place in line as we had done every year prior. Naturally, he adored the parade. (What can I say? He is very much like his daddy!) It saddens me that he won't have any memories of this momentous Chicago event. Ditto for his little sisters. Oh, sure...I've probably saved myself about a zillion "now, don't do anything stupid at the parade..." lectures, but this iconic south side classic deserves a resurrection nonetheless, of course. I'm still holding out hope. :)

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I never thought I would say this, but the parade this year wasn't so horrible. Meaning, I did not have to watch drunk 13 year old girls drop trou and relieve themselves on my crocuses. After being on forced hiatus for three years, the parade committe made a lot of promises to keep the mayhem under control, and were granted a "one last chance" extension. Some friends and I walked over on parade day, and AMAZINGLY we experienced the parade the way it was 15 years ago. It was, honestly, a family event. Positives: *As mentioned above, no public urination or vomiting. In fact, one of the most disgusting aspects of parade day were the banks of porta-potties which, by noon, were afloat in pools of beer/bodily fluids, strewn with paper products, all of them with long lines of full-bladdered inebriates waiting for their turn. No wonder kids preferred public urination. Euch. But THIS year, the porta-potties were in pristine condition, right off the factory floor, and their were no lines. *Bars did not open until after the parade. Trains to the area were checking and confiscating alcohol. Private security was out busting people with open liquor. Buses that brought a lot of outsiders to the neighborhood were routed to inconvenient locations. All of this added up to a parade for residents and their friends, not people from far away who wanted to get wasted, trash the neighborhood, and then go home. *The parade route was shorter, which meant the parade was shorter, which meant the neighbrhood was not closed for most of the day and into the evening. Negatives: *Yes, it was closed for LESS time, but the neighborhood was still inaccessible for the better part of the day. I don't know how this is even legal. If you live in an area, and pay taxes, you should have the right to come and go--unless the National Guard is handling a terrorist attack or something. Some people do have to work on Sunday, or they may want to just leave the area for whatever reason, and they can't. It seems punitive. Can't residents be issued placards for their cars that let them in and out? *Drinking was cut way down but not eliminated--there were lots of people carrying coffee travel mugs that smelled a lot like Guinness, and babies in strollers perched on cases of beer. Everyone was pretty well-behaved, and a little pushing at boundaries is okay....but the security measures put in place for this "trial year" will always have to be there. * How can a city that's always in the red and in a panic about debt, taxes, etc., afford the $3 million on this parade, when they're already financing the Downtown parade for St. Pat? *High school marching bands and bagpipe bands are always fun (it would be nice if the pipers learned to play something besides "Gary Owen," though), but politicians are boring. And sadly, the Budweiser Clydesdales were not at this parade. Bummer. Maybe this year is really a template for future parades, and I'll bite the bullet once a year if this is how the parade turns out. I don't think anyone who really loves the parade was shortchanged, and there were still plenty of family parties going on. I hope the parade organizers are committed to repeating this experience.

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I've been to many a parade in my time, and this is one you can miss. I went to the Southside Chicago St. Patty's parade this afternoon for the first time. On the walk over there was one rather big fight/scuffle between several of the dumbass twenty-somethings who were so liquored up by 11 am they could not stand, but we had expected some of that kind of BS. We arrived at 111th and Western and it was packed three deep on both sides. Walked up to 110th, then crossed and walked down the west side of Western to find a) a good spot to watch and b) an open bar. Did not see ONE bar between 111th and 115th. Did find a good spot between 11th and 114th on the east side, and waited for the parade. Dull. Boring. Groups of people waving and walking; one band; big gaps between groups. We thought we might be too far down, so we walked back towards 111th. Nope! Boring, quiet, hardly any bands ... I don't get it. Perhaps if you live in that area and your pals are in the parade it's cool, but this was an utter waste of time. We left by 2 pm. Save your time and money, go to the Northside parade and hit the bars in the Loop/South Loop afterwards!

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If whats-her-face didn't live in Evergreen Park (walking distance of the parade) I'm not sure I'd come from out of my way to attend this parade. Well not every year anyway. This is only my second SSIP experience. Last year, we seemed to miss the whole parade. I'm not sure if they started it earlier, we were too late, or they cut it short because of crappy weather. But we walked around with my back pack full of beer, & enjoyed the dirty drunken experience. This year, with better weather, I was sure to have more fun. But I honestly can't say I did. I'm not sure why. Maybe because I drank myself silly on Friday & Saturday night & my body couldn't handle much more. Maybe I've gotten too used to my rule of not partying on Sunday. Or maybe there was seemingly more people this year & my claustrophobic side, that I didn't know existed, was kicking in. Maybe I witnessed too many drunk girls puking on the side of the road, & maybe the concrete was too sticky from all the spilled beer...and drunk girls puking on the side of the road. Maybe it felt too much like a college party on steroids. Wait...I'm complaining about these things? Whats happening to me? Am I getting too old for this stuff?? NOOO!

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Yes, the SSIP is fun but you need to tackle this journey the correct way as I've done it correct once, and another time - not so much. Assumption: You're a north-sider, heading south. My advice: Go in on a bus package with one of the bars. Make sure they drop you off at the southern tip of the parade so you can get in the bars there first. Otherwise you are stuck heading North-to-South trying to get through crowds of drunken people. No doubt, this is FUN but I can't do it every year... The line-ups for the portopotty's are horrendous. Expect permanent damage to your bladder. DO NOT TRY TO TAKE A LEAK ANYWHERE BUT A BATHROOM. CAPS are out ticketing people for "indecent exposure" if you get caught. That kind of record doesn't look good!!! Also, even though it appears that everyone is drinking on the street, CAPS will confiscate your alcohol or make you dump your drink if they see you. (this didn't happen in 2006, but it happened in 2008)

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Skip the old reviews , they're no longer relevant. For parking, I parked at CVS and walked over to Western . Parking is very limited, and this put us close with minimal distance to walk. The SS Parade is now very family friendly, and for those seeking to share their Irish Heritage and traditions with their children, this is now a must! Remember, this is where Chicagos original St Patricks Day a Parade started. There is no alcohol allowed , there were no fights, and everyone was dressed in green and cheering. I brought my 6yo and a 13yo with me, we had no problems and really enjoyed ourselves . The kids came home with tons of beads and candy, and more memories than they can begin to speak on. The adults were great about allowing the smaller children to walk up to the gate to see the parade, parade marshals were everywhere ensuring no one was drinking and the fun was good and clean. We will be back next year!

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'Tis the time of year that I be feelin' the Irish roots compelling me to don the green and raise a pint! This was my first time to the Southside parade. And I was not disappointed. Not too much really. The "rule" says that you can't have open containers of alcohol while watching the parade. However, the surrounding liquor stores and taverns made it helpful by passing out containers that acceptable. My main complaint is that the chamber of commerce along with the city would win big points if they put MORE portable toilets along the parade route. Then people wouldn't have to sneak around and try to find places to "go". My advice for you is to take some friends down on the Rock Island train and dress in layers. You don't know how the day is going to be....it is still Chicago after all. And after the parade, spend the time going to a food establishment and buy more than you are going to eat. People will be bardering their children for a bite of what you have!

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Last March I attended this parade, which is held the weekend before the actual. This was the 28th anniversary of the parade, which is held on Western Avenue around 111th Street in the Irish neighborhood of Beverly. We boarded the southbound Western bus from Armitage, passing around a mimosa. We rode the million blocks to 79th Street and transferred to a Pace bus to travel the rest of the way. The bus was full of revelers. We got there and started walking. Everyone had green on and lots of people were selling shamrock jewelry. We stopped at a liquor store to get some alcohol and met the Guinness brewmaster from Ireland! We watched the parade from a friend's balcony overlooking Western (sweet to have a house to warm up in and a fridge to store beer!). Walking around the hood after the parade was fun, too! We got to meet some friends' families that mercifully provided us with corned beef, cabbage, beer, and other Irish delicacies. I think I was drunk three times that day! So fun, I can't wait to go back "down dere"!

Experience the vibrant South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago, IL. Celebrate Irish culture, enjoy lively festivities, and join the fun today.

South Side Irish Parade in Chicago - Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

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South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade

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Join the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago! Experience vibrant Irish culture, lively parades, and fun festivities. Don't miss out!

South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade, Chicago - Celebrate Irish Heritage & Festivities

Learn about the South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago. Discover its history, cultural significance, and how it brings the community together.

About South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade, Chicago

Opening hours for South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade, Chicago. Find opening hours for South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade, Chicago on 11100 S Western Ave.

South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade Menu Overview

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Nine One One BBQ Shack

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