Irish community in Western USA
Whether you're a newly arrived tech entrepreneur seeking to build a business network in the US, a long-time resident looking to re-establish your connection with home, or just an affinity with Irish culture, there is a community here for you!
On this page you'll find:
The Irish diaspora
The Irish diaspora is made up of intrepid, innovative people, who have made significant contributions to countries around the world, across many centuries.
Our diaspora is not uniform; it is made up of diverse groups of people with a broad range of interests, who all share one thing: a connection to Ireland. Whatever aspect of Irish culture resonates with you the most – be it sport, history, literature or music – we are here to ensure that you never lose that connection.
Irish community organisations in San Francisco
Irish Cultural Centre, San Francisco - Keeper of the Steps programme
Anne Cassidy Carew
Keepers of the Steps is a special cultural program of the United Irish Cultural Center that manages, curates, and promotes local Irish step dance history and stories, memorabilia, and ephemera.
Committed to exploring the history of Irish step dance in the San Francisco Bay Area dating as far back as the Gold Rush in the 1850s, the collection celebrates the roots, rhythms, and rituals of one of the most enduring traditions of our Irish heritage.
Learn more about the Keepers of the Steps programme on the United Irish Cultural Center's website>>
United Irish Societies of San Francisco
James Quinn
The United Irish Societies (UIS) produce and sponsor a range of cultural events in San Francisco, including Peter Yorke Day, Robert Emmett Day and the iconic Grand Marshal’s Dinner.
For over 170 years, the UIS has produces San Francisco’s St Patrick’s Day parade, celebrating Ireland and its values on the international stage. The colorful festivities surrounding the Parade & Festival showcase the reality of Irish culture and community in San Francisco.
Find out more about the United Irish Societies of San Francisco on their website>>
Irish Network Bay Area - President
Jessica Dowling Hammer
The Irish Network Bay Area (INBA) has a mission to connect people, create business opportunities, and celebrate our community's achievements.
The goal of the INBA is to build and nurture an inclusive, Irish-led professional business community within San Francisco and the greater Bay Area, the epicentre of innovative technology, pioneering creativity and thought leadership.
INBA members meet to share knowledge and challenges, collaborate on ideas, and strengthen connections.
Find out more about the Irish Network Bay Area on their website>>
United Irish Cultural Centre - President
Liam Reidy
Based in San Francisco’s Sunset District, the United Irish Cultural Center (UICC) of celebrates, promotes, and preserves the rich culture and heritage of the collective local, regional, and national culture of Ireland.
The Center fosters cultural awareness through education, arts, and social events, and chronicles the valued historical contributions of the dedicated Irish in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Find out more about the work of the United Irish Cultural Centre on their website>>
Irish Immigration Pastrol Centre - Executive Director
Celine Kennelly
The Irish Immigration Pastoral Center (IIPC) is a volunteer-managed organisation, assisting Irish immigrants in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The IIPC’s mission is to provide a ‘home away from home’ for Irish immigrants in the Western United States. In essence, it is a parish without boundaries offering spiritual, social, medical, educational, legal, financial guidance and advice to Irish who are thousands of miles away from home and family.
The IIPC helps to lessen the feelings of loneliness, isolation and frustration experienced by so many recently arrived Irish immigrants, in addition to providing practical assistance to members of our community.
Find out more about the IIPC on their Facebook>>
Celebrating Irish citizenship
The Consulate General of Ireland engages with the diaspora across a multitude of ways, celebrating everything from Irish citizenship to our national games. Check out some recent highlights.