THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Shaking Off Winter Cobwebs and Going Green!

Who’s ready to shake off those winter cobwebs? Well, thanks to a few socially distanced in-person and some virtual “green” events planned this weekend before St. Patrick’s Day, you can do just that! Let the shenanigans begin!!

You can still enjoy all the traditions of the best Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade that typically features over 200 floats and marching bands with the city’s new virtual format for 2021 — Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Parade Celebration this Saturday. This year’s Grand Marshal is Father Thomas Hurley, Pastor of the historic Old St. Pat’s Church. This live streaming of the parade will follow all CDC guidelines per the City of Chicago and the Department of Health. Be sure to check this event’s website for information on how to view the parade and the dyeing of the Chicago River before the parade!

This year’s Shamrock Shuffle unfortunately will not be congregating in Grant Park as in years past but instead will take place in neighborhoods throughout the city by switching to a virtual format. This annual 8K run and 2-mile walk will allow participants to plan their own route and starting time as long as it falls between March 19 and March 21. As usual, those who sign up will get a festive T-shirt and a bib number to display!

Chicago’s best St. Pat’s AM party, You Can’t Drink All Day St. Patrick’s Day Event, takes place this Saturday. Not only is this year’s edition adding a twist to their annual event, but it’s also throwing you the Covid responsible version. This undoubtedly will be a very hot ticket to come by even though it will be held outdoors. Table reservations are a must with limited seating per a 2-, 3-, or 4-hour time frame! So, don’t delay!! Mask up, pack the antibacterial, and dress in your warmest green and gold for the hottest St. Patrick’s Day party in Chicago.

It’s time to get out and enjoy our city aboard a St. Patrick’s Day Yacht Partycruise. This Saturday or Sunday cruise aboard Anita Dee II’s 140-foot, three-story luxury yacht on Lake Michigan. While Navy Pier is closed, boarding is temporarily located at Burnham Harbor (1559 S. Lake Shore Dr.). So, get out and celebrate this joyous holiday aboard a cruise! Don’t forget to don your green gear!!

For those not wanting to leave the comfort of their home but still want to celebrate, the Rambler Kitchen + Tap (4128 N. Lincoln Ave.) in the North Center neighborhood is serving up an Irish Pub Experience at Home! Beginning this Saturday and running through St. Patrick’s Day, enjoy two corned beef platters with a four-pack of Guinness and the Rambler will include Guinness Imperial pint glasses, beads, and other St. Patrick’s Day surprises!

In case you didn’t know, this Sunday is Pi Day. If you’re free this Saturday between 4 p.m.-5 p.m., you can join an online experience of Unboxing the Pie: The Strange and Wonderful World of Pizza. Scott Wiener, the Guinness World Record holder for the largest pizza delivery box collection, will teach you about pizza’s alleged origins, explain its unique shape, and offer a rare glimpse of his unique and unusual collection. After all, it is the world’s favorite circular food!

Don’t forget, spring clocks forward an hour on Sunday for the upcoming spring season!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago