Why does Chicago color the River Green, how to watch?

CHICAGO – – If you have ever wondered why Chicago turns the Green River, it is such an iconic tradition as the city itself. Practice honors Chicago's strong Irish heritage and pulls out crowds to experience the emerald transformation.

The background story:

It all started with a great idea of ​​Mayor Richard J. Daley, who wanted to end the Lake Michigan Green to St. Patrick's Day. When he realized how ambitious a task would be, he decided on the manageable Chicagoer River with the same green dye slums used to find wastewater leaks.

Related history: Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade: Everything you need to know

What is in the dye:

Since 1962 the Chicago -Country Plumber's Union has been the mastermind behind the Emerald transformation that we know today. With £ 40 powder on orange-red vegetable base, the boats let the mixture down a quarter mile down the river. The plumber union says the powder is non -toxic, but the formula remains a secret.

How long does the dye take:

In recent years, the dye would stay in the river for up to a week. The new formula has only lasted a few hours in recent times.

Where to watch:

If you travel to Chicago to color the annual river color, the most popular places where you can watch are from the bridges along the Upper Wackers or between the State and the Columbus Drive. The Riverwalk will be closed to the public.

If you watch from home, we will stream live in the FOX Local app from start to finish.