Rise o’ the Green

By
October 2021 View more

After a pandemic postponement in 2020, West Suburban Irish hosted Naperville’s first Irish Fest on August 6 and 7 at the Frontier Sports Complex. Thousands of people attended the two-day celebration of all-things-Irish, enjoying music, dancing, Gaelic sport exhibitions, and cultural activities—all for a wee bit o’ craic.

Attendees enjoyed food and beverages as a variety of Irish bands and dancers performed throughout the festival. Highlights included a traditional pipe and drum performance, jig lessons from local Irish schools of dance, a sessions tent where audience members could join in on the music, and a blessing by WSI’s very own St. Patrick. Tents were set up offering information on travel, Irish history, and genealogy. Children enjoyed traditional Irish folk stories, prizes and a number of family-friendly activities.

WSI member and volunteer Veronica Porter especially appreciated the joy and camaraderie of the event. “Irish people always have a story and a connection. It was heartwarming to see people laughing after a difficult year. It was such a fun event.” 

Photos by James Hoch and Mike Danahey/Naperville Sun