Pennsylvania Irish
Though not as numerous as the Germans, the Irish in Pennsylvania have contributed significantly to our rich and varied ethnic landscape. Beginning even before the Potato Famine of the 1840s, the Irish started emigrating to the United States and found their way to Pennsylvania. Today, you'll find proud Irish-Pennsylvanians in every nook and cranny of the Keystone State.
Why are we bringing this up? Because in the springtime, our thoughts naturally turn to St. Patrick's Day! On this one glorious day, everybody has the good fortune to be Irish - and so everybody must celebrate. From parades large and small to church festivals to special dinners in restaurants and taverns, Pennsylvania plays host to a mind-boggling variety of Irish-American fun every March 17.
If your travel plans don't include the holiday, don't despair - there's plenty more Irish fun to be had all year-round. Plan a trip to the Irish Centre of Pittsburgh to learn about the Gaelic language and try your hand (foot?) at traditional step dancing. You could also visit the Irish Memorial at Penn's Landing, in Philadelphia, or check out Donegal Square, which bills itself as the Lehigh Valley's Celtic destination. And all over the state, you'll find Irish specialty import shops full of sweaters, crystal, china, and treats. And don't forget the many, many Irish taverns!
Don't know where to start? Check our events calendar or use the Search feature to find out where the action is near you.
