The Irish in Boston, MA, US
Boston's Irish roots stretch back to the colonial era when immigrants arrived seeking new opportunities amidst revolutionary fervor. Over the decades, Irish traditions have merged seamlessly with the city's historic character, creating a cultural tapestry enriched by music, dance, and storytelling. Iconic pubs like Emmet's Irish Pub, Kelly’s Pub, and McGann's Irish Pub have long served as gathering spots where lively conversations and traditional tunes echo through the night. Local institutions and festive community events continue to celebrate this vibrant legacy, fostering connections between the past and the present. Discover Boston's dynamic Irish scene and join the celebration—check it out today!
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Latest Events this week
August 20 - April 09
Music Bingo Wednesday Nights
Test your music knowledge at Music Bingo every Wednesday night! Registration kicks off at 5:30pm, and the first game starts at 6pm. Each round a winner will score epic swag or a gift card!
weeklyWednesday05:30 PMAugust 22
Friday Night Session at the irish cultural center of Greater Boston
Every Friday night, the Irish Cultural Centre in Canton, MA, comes alive with its beloved Friday Night Session. Starting around 6:00 PM, musicians of all levels gather for an open traditional Irish music session, led by John Kearney. Whether you're a seasoned player or just love the sound of fiddles and flutes, you're welcome to join in or simply enjoy the tunes. The session takes place in the ICC Pub, offering a cozy atmosphere to relax with a pint and experience authentic Irish culture.
weeklyFriday06:30 PM
Broadside Tavern
99 Broad St
Pull up a stool at Broadside Tavern, where Boston meets the best of Irish banter! With pints flowing, sports showing, and the warm buzz of craic in the air, it's the perfect spot to gather your clan, cheer on your team, or just soak in the good vibes - Irish style.
Emmet's Irish Pub
6 Beacon St
Step into Emmet’s Irish Pub in Beacon Hill and you’ll swear you’ve crossed the Atlantic. With a pint of Guinness in hand, a plate of shepherd’s pie on the table, and the hum of lively conversation all around, it’s Boston’s own corner of Ireland - where the craic is mighty and the welcome’s even warmer.
Ned Devine's Irish Pub
1 Commercial St
Ned Devine's Irish Pub in Boston's historic Faneuil Hall is where Irish charm meets New England flair. By day, it's a cozy spot to savor award-winning clam chowder and hearty pub fare. By night, it transforms into a lively venue with live music and dancing. Whether you're catching a game or enjoying a night out, Ned Devine's offers a warm welcome and a pint of cheer.
Sullivan’s Public House
85 Main St
Sullivan’s Public House in Charlestown is where Irish soul meets Boston charm. Tucked into the historic gaslight district, this neighborhood spot blends old world warmth with modern flair. Grab a pint, dig into some Irish eats or even try their Town Taqueria twist - it’s all good craic and great company.
Sweeney'd On Boylston
710 Boylston St
Sweeney’s on Boylston is where Back Bay gets its Irish swagger. Tucked inside the Lenox Hotel, it’s got Guinness flowing, stew that warms your soul, and just the right dose of cheek. Whether you’re popping in for a pint, a match, or the craic - Sweeney’s has your back, lad.
The Black Rose
160 State St
The Black Rose is Boston’s OG Irish pub, slinging pints and playing tunes since 1976. Right in the heart of Faneuil Hall, it’s where the Guinness is cold, the music’s live every night, and the vibes are pure Irish magic. Come for the shepherd’s pie, stay for the singalong.
The Dubliner
2 Center Plz
The Dubliner is downtown Boston’s slice of modern Ireland - think Michelin-level grub, trad tunes midweek, and Guinness poured like a prayer. Right across from City Hall, it’s where you come to feast, sing, sip whiskey, and feel a wee bit closer to home.
The Ireland Funds Boston Chapter
10 Post Office Square, Suite N950
The Ireland Funds Boston chapter is a cornerstone of Irish-American philanthropy in New England. Hosting one of the most prestigious annual galas, it connects leaders in business, education, and the arts who support Irish culture, peace, and community development across Ireland and beyond.
The Irish Cultural Centre of Greater Boston
200 New Boston Drive
The Irish Cultural Centre in Canton, MA is a 61-acre hub for all things Irish, built with love by the local Irish and Irish American community. Since 1989, it’s been bringing people together to celebrate Irish culture—think live music, dance, sports, great food and pints, and classes for everything from language to history. Backed in part by the Irish government, it's one of the biggest Irish centers in the U.S., open year-round and welcoming to anyone who wants a proper taste of Ireland.
Éire Society of Boston
Founded in 1937, the Éire Society of Boston promotes Irish culture, arts, language, and history. Open to all, it's a non-political, non-sectarian group that honors contributions by Irish and Irish-Americans through events, lectures, and its prestigious Gold Medal Award.
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Planning some shenanigans or want to share an Irish event you’re going to? If there’s something we’ve missed, submit it below, or give us a shout.