Chicago's annual St. Patrick's Day celebrations saw a significant transformation in downtown Chicago, with the city's annual river and parade. Boats from Shoreline Sightseeing and members of the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130 sprayed bright green dye into the Chicago River, a decades-old tradition that draws thousands of spectators each year. The parade began at 12:15 p.m. with the theme of "Faith, Peace and Unity," honoring Pope Leo XIV, the first pope born in the United States and Chicago. The Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band of Chicago led the procession, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. After the river dyeing concluded, thousands gathered for the downtown Chicago St.Patrick's Day Parade.