Date
Saturday
Mar

March 1-31

Irish-American Heritage Month

Celebrate Irish-American Heritage Month with traditional Irish music, dance, and food - honoring our history and culture!

Yearly Date
March 1
Type
Month
Category
Cause

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate Irish-American Heritage Month starting March 1! This annual celebration was started in 1991, and is dedicated to recognizing the contributions of Irish Americans throughout history. With almost 40 million people in the United States claiming Irish ancestry, this month is a great opportunity to learn about and appreciate the culture, traditions and values of the Irish people. From traditional music, dance and food to the impact of the Irish immigrants on American politics and society, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this festive month. So let's get together and show our pride in being part of this vibrant heritage!

Irish-American Heritage Month Timeline

1845-1852
Great Irish Famine
The Great Famine in Ireland led to a large wave of Irish immigration to the United States, forming a significant proportion of the American population.
1863
Irish Brigade in Civil War
The Irish Brigade, composed mostly of Irish-Americans, significantly contributed to the Union cause in the American Civil War.
1965
Immigration and Nationality Act
This act ended immigration quotas based on national origins, leading to another period of increased Irish immigration.
1991
First Irish-American Heritage Month
Congress officially declared March as Irish-American Heritage Month in response to a proposal by the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

How to Celebrate Irish-American Heritage Month

1

Watch an Irish movie

Grab some popcorn and watch a classic Irish movie to get in the spirit of Irish-American Heritage Month. From "The Quiet Man" to "The Commitments" and "In America", there are plenty of films to choose from.

2

Learn about Irish history

Take some time to learn about the history of Ireland and how it shaped the Irish diaspora in America. Visit a library or search online to find books and articles about the history, culture, and traditions.

3

Visit an Irish pub

What better way to celebrate Irish-American Heritage Month than by visiting your local Irish pub? Enjoy a pint of Guinness or try some traditional pub food like fish and chips or bangers and mash.

4

Attend an Irish cultural event

Many cities have Irish cultural events and festivals during the month of March. Attend a parade, a ceili, or a Gaelic sports match to really get in the spirit.

5

Listen to some traditional Irish music

Listen to some traditional Irish music like Uilleann pipes, fiddles, tinwhistles, and bodhrans. You can also listen to some more modern Irish bands like The Chieftains, The Pogues, or Flogging Molly.

Why Irish-American Heritage Month is Important

A

It celebrates Irish culture and heritage

Irish-American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultural contributions of those of Irish descent living in the United States. From their traditional music and dance to their enduring literature and art, Irish culture has played an important role in America for centuries – something worth celebrating!

B

It honors the legacy of Irish immigrants

During this month, we honor the legacy of the millions of Irish immigrants who left everything behind to come to the United States in search of better lives. They helped to shape our nation's history and future through their labor, patriotism and loyalty to America over generations.

C

It promotes reflection and learning

Irish-American Heritage Month is also a time for learning about the unique contributions that Irish Americans have made to our society. Events such as parades, festivals, lectures, film screenings and exhibits provide educational opportunities for everyone to reflect on the shared experiences and complex history of those with Irish ancestry.

Irish-American Heritage Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 28
Tuesday
2024
Feb 29
Thursday
2025
Feb 28
Friday
2026
Feb 28
Saturday
2027
Feb 28
Sunday