Chicago River Dyed Green

There's just something about quirky and unusual travel. Whether it's interesting holiday traditions, unusual parades, or knick-knack gift shops, there's something about travel that goes beyond just the typical sights and sounds. While most people are familiar with St. Patrick's Day Parades and green beer, we found a few unique St. Patrick's Day events.

The World's Largest Shamrock in O'Neill, Nebraska: Getting directions in O'Neill isn't too difficult around St. Patrick's Day when the world's largest shamrock can be your point of reference. While you probably haven't heard of O'Neill, it's referred to as the “Irish Capital of the World.” Other oddities during the town's St. Patrick's Day festivities include a reading of Dr. Seuss' “Green Eggs and Ham,” fish fry, and a town hypnotist.

Chicago River Dyed Green: Chicago features one of the strongest Irish heritages in the U.S. While many cities may dye a fountain green, Chicago actually dyes the entire river green. They've been doing it for 40 years and it's one of the highlights of St. Paddy's Day in Chicago.

World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade in Hot Springs, Arkansas: Hot Springs has one of the most unique parades in the world, which is no surprise, since it is also one of the most quirky towns. Despite being the shortest parade, the event is quite the draw, with a different celebrity Grand Marshall each year. Other happenings include green fireworks, belly dancers, and a pub crawl.

New London Name Change to New Dublin: St. Patrick's Day festivities get kicked off in New London when residents go around the city changing the name of the city from New London to New Dublin. The highlight is the New Dublin Parade, which includes a “fake wake,” with a green hearse comically driving through the parade.

The Irish Historical Story in Brisbane, Australia: Surprising to many, Australia has a strong Irish heritage, with St. Patrick's Day festivities happening throughout the country. Brisbane has their Irish Parade, but with a twist, called the “Irish Historical Story.” Residents dress up as farmers, miners, teachers, widows and orphans, to show the Irish influence on Australian culture.