CHICAGO, IL (KRQE)– Saint Patrick’s Day is still days away, but celebrations are already getting underway.

The river in Chicago has been dyed green.

Thousands of spectators turned out on both sides of the river to watch members of the Plumbers Union dye the water.

It’s a Chicago tradition that dates back to 1962.

The dye goes in orange then turns a kelly green when it hits the water.

The river-dying is followed by the downtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.

The holiday is on Thursday.