St. Paddy’s Tradition: The River O’Green

Tampa will dye the Hillsborough River green for the Mayor’s River O’Green Fest on Saturday, March 18. As with most St. Patrick’s Day traditions, the practice actually started in America. Chicago, to be exact.

In 1962, the Butler and Rowan families dyed the Chicago River green and started an annual tradition that spread across the United States. Now major cities like Indianapolis and Savannah join them. Even the White House has dyed its fountains green, an homage to former President Obama’s hometown of Chicago.

Admission to Tampa’s event is free. Festivities include music, games and local restaurants serving Irish fare.

– Katie Wilcox, B2 Communications