Irish Festival
First annual event features a rake-load of activities
The first annual Irish Festival on PEI will take place in March.
“Last year the B.I.S. celebrated its 200th anniversary with festivities right across the Island from Tignish to Souris,” shares Kathy Roney, Chair of the Benevolent Irish Society’s Social and Ceilidh Committee. “We were so pleased with the support and enthusiasm we received from Islanders and tourists that we felt, why not continue the passion in 2026!”
From this excitement, the idea of creating an Island-wide Irish Festival in March, when St. Patrick is traditionally honoured, was created.
“We feel we have such a grand culture that we want to share it with everyone! There are dinners, an Irish stew, Irish trivia, an Irish breakfast, ceilidhs, concerts, plays, and lectures all scheduled throughout the festival,” Roney adds, on behalf of the event coordinators across PEI.
Events in Charlottetown include the Benevolent Irish Society of PEI’s Lecture Series on March 2, 9, and 16 at the Irish Cultural Centre; the St. Patrick’s Ceilidh on March 13 at the Centre; Stella Days at City Cinema from March 13–17; and the three-act Irish comedy Marrying Mike at the Irish Cultural Centre March 20–22 and 27–29. Contact Kathy Roney at 902-314-8840 for details.
In Fort Augustus, an Irish Stew and Ceilidh takes place March 15 at the Fort Augustus Community Centre. Email patduffy.2058@gmail.com for details.
In Kinkora, an Irish Pub and Food Night takes place March 13 at O’Shea’s Pub. Email osheas@live.com or call 902-882-2011 for details.
In Morell, Holy Cow hosts an Irish Pub Night on March 14, Irish Stew from March 14–17, and a traditional Irish Breakfast on March 15. An Old Time Irish Concert will be held at Morell Regional High School on March 15. Email Cletus Dunn at cjdunn12@hotmail.com for details.
In Souris, Darby O’Gill screens March 15 at Souris Show Hall. Call 902-687-3376 for details.
In Tignish, an Irish Trivia and Pub Night takes place March 17 at the Royal Canadian Legion. Contact Shelley at the Legion, 902-882-2011, for details.
Everyone is invited to take part in these festive activities.