According to a Washington Post article, the U.S. Census Bureau found there are seven times more people who list their ancestries as Irish-American than individuals in the entire country of Ireland. If you’ve decided to make Boston your home, it’s easier to experience the Irish culture there than in any other American city. That’s because Boston has the highest concentration of Irish residents there -- 20.4 percent to be exact. Keep reading to learn where to hang out if you want to get an authentically Irish experience without splurging on international airfare.
Visit the Irish Pastoral Center
Describing itself as a “parish without boundaries,” Boston’s Irish Pastoral Center focuses on being a resource for Irish people who’ve recently arrived in Boston. There, you can find counseling services, outreaches for families and senior citizens, plus citizenship assistance. Many of the people on staff there are originally from Ireland, so whether you have the heritage or just enjoy being around people who do, make sure to check out the organization and avail of the guidance there if you need it while getting settled.
Join the Boston Branch of the Irish Network
The Irish Network is made up of companies and individuals across America who have ties to Ireland and a desire to network with each other. The $50 annual membership fee for the Boston version of the group grants you access to social events, a database of Irish-related businesses and plenty of opportunities to share knowledge with your peers and learn from them at the same time.
Read the Boston Irish Reporter
This themed newspaper is available at newsstands around Massachusetts and the surrounding New England states, but you can also read PDF copies for free via the Internet. Consider perusing them before you move to the area and afterwards too. Then you’ll have the scoop on all the latest Irish happenings in Boston, including must-attend events and relevant news.
Dine at The Kinsale Irish Pub and Restaurant
Kinsale is a charming fishing village located in County Cork, Ireland. After you visit this Boston favorite, you’ll see it has all the allure the Irish town is known for. This Boston landmark is situated in the Government Center and the interior is filled with decorations and trinkets that were made in Ireland. You’re sure to get an authentic experience here, as the crowd is usually comprised of a lively bunch of both locals and tourists. There’s free live music in the bar each night, and patio seating available in nice weather.
Take a Step Dancing Class in Somerville
On the first and third Mondays of the month, consider taking the subway to Somerville. From the Boston South Station, board the Red Line train towards Alewife and get off at the Davis stop. Once in Somerville, find your way to The Burren, located on Elm Street in Davis Square, Irish step dancing classes are offered there by Ger Cooney at 8 p.m. Admission is $8, and beginners are welcome. Even if you have trouble keeping up with the energetic pace the dance style is known for, you’ll at least have an enjoyable soundtrack courtesy of the live band that plays at the front bar during each class.
Whether you’re Irish by blood or Irish at heart, the list you’ve just read should give you a great start in surrounding yourself with Irish people while in Boston. Have fun!
Robin Knight blogs for Movoto where you'll find more about fun things you can do in Boston.
