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Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade

( March 13, 2013 )

They don't come any bigger than the Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade. Everybody and their mamas are there for this event that, as usual, will kick off with the 10 a.m. dyeing of the Chicago River (you can be forgiven for saying "Isn't it already green?"). Politicians, mayors, celebrities and bands galore are all on tap, as well as the legendary Shannon Rovers, because nothing puts a stir in the ol' noggin like the skirl of bagpipes.

Why go: Because it's the biggest and the best.

Reconsider: You hate parades.

Noon Saturday, Columbus Drive and Balbo Avenue. Free; chicagostpatsparade.com/parade.html