Celebrating Chicago’s Irish Heritage with Old St. Pat’s
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Founded in 1846, Old St. Patrick’s became Chicago’s first English-speaking Catholic church, established by Irish immigrants. This dedicated community came together to celebrate Mass, preserve their heritage, and raise the funds to build the church, which opened in 1856. Today, it remains the oldest church building in Chicago.
The church’s Irish roots are beautifully reflected in its intricate Celtic art and the stunning stained glass windows crafted by Thomas O’Shaughnessy. Having survived the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, Old St. Patrick’s has been a cornerstone of every St. Patrick’s celebration since the tradition began in the city. |
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This January, February and March, join us in honoring our remarkable history, which has shaped Old St. Pat’s into a thriving center for faith, culture, and community for nearly 180 years.
2026 Event Schedule
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St. Brigid's Cross-Weaving Workshop (Free)
January 24 at 9 AM - 12:00 PM Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox, Chicago For more information on this event and others, go to bit.ly/FriendsOfStBrigid. Third Annual St. Brigid's Day Lecture (Free) Catholic Resources For Mitigating Trauma" - Dr. Heather DuBois January 27 at 7 PM - 8:15 PM CT Via Zoom Webinar, Register at bit.ly/StBrigid-Lecture St. Brigid's Day Festival of Service and Storytelling (Free) February 1 at 12:15 PM - 3:00 PM Fellowship Hall - 625 W. Adams For more information on this event and others, go to bit.ly/FriendsOfStBrigid. A Day of Reflection Hosted By Still Point Community March 7 from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM - Brookfield Zoo Treetop Grand Vista. Ticket info: [email protected] Siamsa na nGael - Tickets on Sale Feb. 3 March 9 at 7:30 PM - Chicago Symphony Orchestra Hall |
Civic Mass
Saturday, March 14 Contact Ann McNamara at [email protected] Shamrock’n at Old St. Pat’s - Tickets on Sale Feb. 2 Saturday, March 14 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM Old St. Pat’s Campus, Fellowship Hall - 625 W. Adams St. Patrick’s Day Community Celebration Sunday, March 15 at 11:00 AM Mass Come celebrate our patron saint as a community with our choirs, Irish traditional instrumentalists, and prayers focused on St. Patrick. Please see below for more information on these events and celebrations of the rich history of Old St. Patrick’s. |
2025 Irish Heritage Events and Photo Galleries
Civic Mass 2025: Honoring heritage, faith, and community.
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Siamsa na nGaelNow in its 26th year, Siamsa na nGael was created as a gift of Irish Culture to Chicago in celebration of Old St. Patrick's 150 anniversary by the legendary Mayor Richard and Mrs. Maggie Daley along with Patrick and Shirley Ryan. Each year, this beloved tradition launches St. Patrick's week in Chicago and brings together capacity audiences of 2,500 guests to experience a unique blend of Celtic music, dance, and storytelling that highlights the contributions and history of the Irish people.
. This year's theme will honor the life and legacy of St. Brigid, focusing on her inspiring faith, leadership, and enduring call for greater opportunities for women in leadership in the church and the world. Through spoken word, music, and dance, the program will celebrate St. Brigid and the women leaders of today sharing a message of hope, justice, and unity.. When: Monday, March 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM Where: Chicago Symphony Orchestra Hall Tickets: $30–$60, available starting February 3, 2025, via CSO Box Office call 312.294.3000 or visit bit.ly/Siamsa-Tickets-CSO; Sponsorship opportunities start at $1,250 and can be purchased at bit.ly/Siamsa-Sponsorships |
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Civic Celebration
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The Civic Celebration is a Mass and reception honoring Irish Culture, presented in partnership with the Plumbers Union Local 130 UA. This special event brings together union members, civic dignitaries, and the Old St. Patrick’s community in worship, marking the official start of the City of Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations.
The Civic Celebration on March 15 was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who attended and made it such a memorable occasion. For more information or inquiries, feel free to contact Ann McNamara at [email protected] or 312-798-2355. |
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Shamrock’n at Old St. Pat's:
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