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Irish-American Heritage Month

A heritage observance in March honoring the history and contributions of Irish Americans.

Monday
1–31
March 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
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YEARLY DATEAll of March
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYCulture
SUBCATEGORYIrish Heritage
ORIGIN

Legislative Resolution

FOUNDING ENTITY
U.S. Congress
FIRST OBSERVED
1991
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The U.S. Congress designated March 1991 as Irish-American Heritage Month in 1990 and requested a presidential proclamation, first issued by President George H.W. Bush on March 12, 1991.

Legislative Recordvia congress.gov
INTRO

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!

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TIMELINE

Irish-American Heritage Month Timeline

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.

Irish Brigade in Civil War

The Irish Brigade, composed mostly of Irish-Americans, significantly contributed to the Union cause in the American Civil War.

Immigration and Nationality Act

This act ended immigration quotas based on national origins, leading to another period of increased Irish immigration.

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.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Irish-American Heritage Month

EDITOR'S PICK

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.

LEARN

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.

VISIT

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.

ATTEND

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.

LISTEN

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 THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Irish-American Heritage Month is Important

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.

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!

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.

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