The Irish Society

The Irish Society is open to anyone and everyone who has an interest in Irish culture. The main aim of the society is for both Irish and non-Irish students to come together for events including socials, sports, music sessions, concerts and trips away.

I spoke to the Chair Roisin Farrell, who told me more about the society and about their plans for St. Patrick’s Day. Roisin first got involved with the society after attending the St. Patrick’s Day event back in 2011, and has been attending socials ever since. “Socials are at the centre of our society and this year we have organised a number of different events. We had a very successful Christmas ball in Waxy O’Connors in the Printworks this year. We work with various Irish bars in Manchester such as O’Sheas, Waxy O’Connors and St. Kentigens where we hold events ranging from watching sports, open mic nights and the occasional ceilidh.”

The main event in the society’s calendar is St. Patrick’s Day. In previous years the society has celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in various clubs around Manchester including Factory, which was a complete sell-out. “This year, we are holding a massive event in Jabez Clegg in association with RAG and the Manchester Ceilidh Society, called ‘Manchester’s 50 shades of Green’. The night will start off with a live music ceilidh followed by a DJ playing all the classic Irish party tunes. It is a fancy dress event and there will be prizes on the night for the best dressed. We are focusing on making it even more traditional. We are aiming to give both Irish and non-Irish students a taste of traditional Paddy’s day celebrations, promising a great night for all.”

For more information on St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and other socials you can email Roisin at [email protected]