Tampa, Florida. – It's a giant party that the lucky culprits look forward to every year.
Thousands lined up through downtown Tampa for a view of the waterfront Saturday morning, as Mayor Jane Castor gave crews the green light to turn a stretch of the Hillsboro River into shamrocks for the annual River O' Green Festival.
The former mayor also joined her Bob Buckhornwhich started the tradition in 2012.
“I'm really grateful that Mayor Jane continued this,” Buckhorn said. “It is truly a celebration of the amazing diversity of this community.”
According to the city, the green color is safe for the environment, humans and animals, and disappears a few hours after the event ends.
Related: St. Patrick's Day: Tampa dyes the river green for the annual celebration
“We started with about 250 pounds of dye powder, then mixed that in 280 gallons of water,” said John Ring, water production manager for the city of Tampa.
“It's completely safe for the environment, and it's biodegradable,” added Rachel Radwick of Tampa Downtown Partnership.
Traffic on the water was heavy as people spent the afternoon boating, splashing and even surfing through the emerald waves.
Back on the ground, everyone was dressed in their greatest and finest ensembles, ready to raise a glass or pint, and act Irish for the day.
From music to art and festive Irish games, culture was on full display at Curtis Hixson Park.
“We wanted to do more than just the Green River, we've really focused on Irish heritage this year, so we have dancers, singers, games, poetry, maps, there's something for everyone here,” Radwick confirmed.
Watch Fox 13 News
subscription: Click here to sign up for the FOX 13 daily newsletter
