River O’ Green in Tampa

It’s become a St. Patrick’s Day tradition in Tampa. The Hillsborough River was turned a festive green today. The green dye was released this morning and by lunchtime, the transformation was complete. Festivities for St. Patrick's Day included live music, food and drinks at Curtis Hixon Park. The Finnegan Irish Dance Academy performed and a pet costume contest wrapped up the day.

The City of Tampa assured the public the coloring used is safe for the environment, humans and animals. They say it's non-toxic, biodegradable and meets all EPA standards. They say it's even certified to comply with the National Sanitation Foundation Standard for use in drinking water. I'll just take their word for it but I'm gonna pass and stick with bottled water. But they say the dye is even used in eye surgeries.

The River o' Green celebration was followed by the Rough Riders St. Patrick's Day Parade through downtown Tampa. Check out these photos shared by the City of Tampa today.