Chicago dyes its river bright green to kick off St. Patrick’s Day celebrations

The Chicago River shines bright green again as the city kicks off its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Thousands of people lined up along the river and crowded the bridges this Saturday, erupting in cheers as members of the Chicago Plumbers Union Local 130 sprayed dye into the water from boats.

The dyeing is done right before the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade in the city center. This day - which falls on Monday this year - celebrates Irish culture. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and is credited with bringing Christianity there in the fifth century.

The dye is non-toxic. Although the river remains bright for several hours, some traces of color may remain for days.

A second St. Patrick’s Day parade was scheduled for Sunday on the south side of Chicago.