Chicago’s Irish community is one of the largest in the U.S., rooted in 19th-century immigration and still thriving today. Neighborhoods like Beverly and Bridgeport showcase deep Irish ties, while pubs such as Chief O’Neill’s and The Galway Arms keep the culture alive with music and camaraderie. The Irish American Heritage Center anchors the community year-round, and each March the city famously dyes the Chicago River green before hosting one of the world’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades.

Sat, February 7th
12:00 AM
The Ireland Network Chicago Ball is the ultimate Chicago Irish experience. Kick off the St Patrick’s Day season early with Chicago’s finest!

20 W Division St
Butch McGuire borrowed a little money from his mother and opened his “world famous” saloon in 1961. The legendary bar corridor of Rush and Division was born. Butch had the perfect hang-out for local gold coast and old town singles, most of whom happened to be his friends. In fact, through cocktails and conversation, it is believed that over 10,000 marriages have resulted from encounters throughout the decades. Butch, “the unofficial mayor of Division street”, took an active part in the community and took a great interest in his employee’s lives. Butch was always proud to claim that hundreds of men and women had paid for some, if not all, of their educations while working at the saloon. Butch was also quite an advocate for women, being one of the first Chicago bar owners to hire female bartenders and managers. Back in the earlier days, only women were allowed a seat at the crowded bar, men would either give up their seats or be thrown out.

751 N Clark Street
At some “Irish” bars, the most they have in common with Ireland is Guinness on tap and cardboard shamrocks taped to windows. Not so here. You’ll find 13 beers on tap, mostly imports like Murphy’s, Newcastle, Guinness and Harp. A good crowd comes to listen and sometimes dance to live Irish music, but mainly people just socialize.

3471 N Elston Ave
Chief O’Neill’s is the perfect Irish pub offering terrific food and classic Irish music. Shepherd’s pie, delicious meatloaf and fish and chips are served in an atmosphere that transports you to Ireland. Stop in for some great music and a delicious award-winning pint of Guinness.

216 N Wabash Ave
Emerald Loop Bar & Grill blends the charm of an Irish pub with the energy of downtown Chicago. Enjoy hearty classics like corned beef sandwiches, fish and chips, and Irish nachos in a cozy, wood-accented setting. With a wide whiskey selection, lively atmosphere, and frequent live sports, it’s the perfect spot for a pint and a bite any day of the week.

100 W Grand Ave
Fadó Irish Pub brings the soul of Dublin straight to Chicago. Known for its perfectly poured Guinness, Fadó serves up elevated pub fare like boxty quesadillas, whiskey-glazed salmon, and classic fish and chips. Whether you're catching a Premier League match or enjoying a late-night whiskey, Fadó delivers an authentic Irish experience in the heart of River North.

4500 N Lincoln Ave
The Patio at Gideon Welles is a neighborhood gem that brings the charm of an Irish pub outdoors. Nestled in the heart of Chicago, it’s known for its laid-back vibe, great beer list, and crowd-pleasing comfort food. Whether you're grabbing a pint after work or spending a sunny afternoon with friends, the patio delivers chill energy and good times all around.

5254 N Clark St
Lady Gregory’s Irish Bar & Restaurant is an upscale Irish pub offering farm-to-table eats in a richly decorated, welcoming space. Known for its extensive whiskey and beer list, cozy fireplace, and elevated takes on Irish classics, it’s the perfect spot for anything from brunch to late-night pints. With outdoor seating and top-notch cocktails, it balances traditional charm with modern comfort.

400 N McClurg Ct
Lizzie McNeill’s is a laid-back Irish pub with unbeatable views of the Chicago River. Known for its friendly vibe, hearty pub grub, and outdoor patio, it’s a go-to spot for casual drinks and comfort food. Whether you’re stopping in for a burger and a pint or catching a game with friends, Lizzie’s delivers that welcoming neighborhood feel with an Irish twist.

3905 N Lincoln Ave
Mrs. Murphy & Sons blends traditional Irish hospitality with a modern bistro twist. With exposed brick, cozy booths, and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for comforting Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, soda bread, and corned beef and cabbage. Their curated whiskey list and rotating events make it a local favorite for both casual dinners and festive nights out.

6070 N Northwest Hwy
Mystic Rogue is a cozy Irish pub serving up comfort food, cold pints, and a warm neighborhood vibe. From hearty favorites like Irish stew and fish and chips to a solid beer lineup and casual live music, it’s the kind of place you settle into and stay awhile. Friendly staff, no-frills charm, and a touch of Irish magic keep locals coming back.

5800 W Montrose Ave
Six Penny Bit is a no-nonsense Irish dive with character, charm, and a strong pour. It’s a neighborhood staple where the Guinness flows, the jukebox plays, and the regulars feel like family. Think classic bar vibes, cold beer, and a space that doesn’t try too hard — just honest, Irish comfort the way it’s meant to be.

1435 W. TAYLOR ST
Welcome to The Embassy, a new favorite located in Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood. Drinks, sports and food always brings people together. That's why The Embassy crafted the simple purpose of helping people spend meaningful time with each other. With 20 tv's you can enjoy watching every minute of the match, game or race. Enjoy our outdoor patio that also has tv's with sound or throw a game of darts.

3188 N Elston Ave
The Wolfhound Bar & Kitchen brings a fresh, modern edge to the traditional Irish pub scene. With creative spins on classic dishes, a thoughtful craft beer lineup, and a welcoming, no-fuss vibe, it’s a great spot for everything from brunch to late-night pints. The atmosphere is cozy but lively — the kind of place that feels like home, even on your first visit.
Way back in the Spring of 1992 a handful of like-minded individuals on Chicago’s South Side gathered together with the idea of forming an Irish Theatre Group, where everybody could work in the performing arts and have fun doing so at Gaelic Park. Our hope was to present the best in Irish culture and tradition to the community surrounding Gaelic Park and indeed to Chicago at large, in the shape of Irish drama and comedy. We called ourselves Gaelic Park Players.

Established in 2003, Ireland Network Chicago is a not-for-profit organization that serves as a bridge for newly arrived Irish, and those connected to Ireland, to the established Chicago business and Chicago Irish communities. We also raise thousands of dollars each year for Irish-related causes near and dear to our hearts.
4626 N Knox Ave
4626 N Knox Ave
Na Gaeil has been teaching the Irish language to adults in the greater Chicago area for thirty-five years. We offer beginning, intermediate and advanced level classes on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings at the Irish American Heritage Center.
The Irish American Alliance has been in existence since 1990. We currently have approximately three hundred active members, primarily from the Chicago area, particularly the South Side and the South Suburbs. Our club is a non-profit social club and we have an affiliated Charitable Corporation. The Charitable Corporation has engaged in a number of charitable activities through the years, and is holding a fund for the establishment of an Irish American Retirement Home. The retirement home project has moved in “fits and starts” through the years and is presently classified as a “long term goal”. We hold monthly meetings for Officers and Trustees, and quartly meetings for Members. Membership also includes our quarterly newsletter. The club sponsors activities and events which interest our members.
1 E Erie St
TRINITY IRISH DANCE COMPANY (TIDC) has significantly changed the direction and scope of Irish dance, re-introducing the art form as the phenomenon it is today. Founded in 1990, this innovative, nonprofit, repertory company was created to celebrate the pioneering work of Founding Artistic Director Mark Howard. Howard’s uniquely Irish-American company was the birthplace of progressive Irish dance, an innovative movement genre which “ushered in a new era for Irish step dance” (Chicago Tribune), opening new avenues of artistic freedom that led directly to commercial productions such as “Riverdance.”
The Young Gaelic Association is a group dedicated to keeping the culture and traditions of our Irish ancestors alive for generations to come. Through events, experiences, and social opportunities, our goal to unite the vast young Irish population on the Southside of Chicago and throughout the Chicagoland area. Adopting Chicago Gaelic Park as the homeplace of the Young Gaelic Association creates an opportunity for cultural events and community involvement, continuing the legacy our parents and grandparents created for us in the establishment. All are welcome, regardless of age, cultural background, level of commitment, etc. - come join us!
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