St. Patrick’s Day Indianapolis Greening of the Canal 2026 | Free Holiday Kick-off Event

I’m here to argue that Indianapolis is THE place to be for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. In addition to the green beer-drinking types of events, there is a whole portfolio of family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day Indianapolis traditions. Typically, you’ll find several choices for fun St. Patrick’s Day events where you can bring your kids along.

The Greening of the Canal will take place on Thursday, March 12, from 5 – 6 pm in preparation for the Indy St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Friday, March 13, 2026. The Greening of the Canal will also be streamed live on the official Indianapolis St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Facebook page and the Hoosier Lottery Facebook Page. Music and guest speakers will kick off at 5 pm, and the Greening of the Indianapolis Canal officially takes place at 5:45 pm.

The Greening of the Canal in Indianapolis

Every year, the Indianapolis Canal is dyed green to celebrate the arrival of St. Patrick’s Day in Indy. This event is typically held the day before the parade, which is scheduled for March 13th this year; the Canal will be dyed green on March 12th.

The dye for the Greening is poured at the Ohio Street Canal Basin, found near the intersection of West Street and Ohio Street. If you’re familiar with Wheel Fun Rentals, where you can borrow a Swan Boat or other vessel during the summer months, head there to find all the fun.

People of all ages will enjoy a festive atmosphere for the Greening of the Canal. You’ll find live Irish music, the Indianapolis 500 Gordon Pipers performing, and food trucks on hand. The Mayor, the 2026 Irish Citizen of the Year, and the Executive Director of the Hoosier Lottery will be the official pourers for this year’s festivities.

Parking For the St. Patrick’s Day Indianapolis Greening of the Canal

Paid parking is available at Senate Street, Ohio Street, New York Street, and Indiana Avenue. Another option is the White River State Park parking garage located off Washington Street and just west of West Street.

The Greening of the Canal is part of a three-day celebration that includes the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Friday, March 13) and the Shamrock Run & Walk (Saturday, March 14). The Parade and the Greening of the Canal are FREE!

Every year, my kids get so excited for the Greening of the Canal in Indianapolis because it feels like the city kicking off spring in the most festive way. Watching the water turn bright green is a fun and surprising moment for them, and the whole event has a cheerful, family-friendly energy with music, people lining the canal, and everyone celebrating together. They love walking along the canal to see the color spread, grabbing a treat from nearby shops or food trucks, and just being part of something that feels a little magical and very “Indianapolis.” It’s one of those simple traditions that has become a favorite on our family calendar.

Hop over to an Easter Egg Hunt near you!

Plan your trip downtown on Indy’s Red Line.