NEXT UP IN PORTLAND

First Friday Art Walk

April 5 from 5 – 8 PM
Traditional Irish Session Music

Will Woodson and Caitlin Finley will lead a traditional Irish “session,” a casual and sometimes impromptu gathering of musicians who have come together to play traditional Irish music. The session will be informal, and conversation and questions are welcome!

Don’t miss this free opportunity to see some of Maine’s finest Irish musicians.

Poetry Night in the Great Hall

CELEBRATING SEAMUS HEANEY
WITH THREE MAINE POETS

In celebration of National Poetry Month (and Seamus Heaney’s birthday!), we will be hosting an evening of poetry readings featuring three extraordinary Maine poets: Robert Breen, Maya Stein, and Jeffrey Thomson. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and readings begin at 7:00 PM. Admission is free. Donations in support of the Maine Irish Heritage Center are welcome. A cash bar is available.

ONLY MAINE PERFORMANCE

Celtic Thunder’s Neil Byrne: Eyes of Eire Tour

APRIL 23      6 PM MEET & GREET       7:30 PM SHOW

Neil Byrne, the acclaimed Irish singer/songwriter/musician, is renowned for his captivating performances as lead singer of Celtic Thunder. With a seamless blend of Irish tradition and Americana flair, Neil’s solo shows transport audiences on a musical journey unlike any other. From heartfelt originals to beloved Celtic classics, immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of storytelling and song. Secure your tickets now and save with exclusive discounts for MIHC members!

Forging Ties With the Mitchell Institute in Irish Studies

TWO MITCHELL SCHOLARS TO BENEFIT IN INAUGURAL YEAR

We are delighted to announce the creation of a new MIHC-Mitchell scholarship fund, augmenting awards for Mitchell Scholars who choose to pursue personal or professional enrichment opportunities in Ireland. The MIHC first established a scholarship fund in 2004 to honor Eddie Murphy (1939-2000), a well-known West End resident who founded the Portland St. Patrick’s parade in 1980. Already. this year the scholarships will double Mitchell Institute travel fellowships for two students. The fund will become a permanent part of the Maine Irish Heritage Center’s philanthropic work, establishing ongoing support for students from Maine interested in Ireland.

Maine Irish Reads

“Christine Falls”

Next Meeting 4/18 at 7:30 PM

“A page-turner told in prose so beautiful you’ll want to read some passages repeatedly. Intricately plotted, beautifully written.” ―The Boston Globe

 The first novel in the Quirke series brings all the vividness and psychological insight of John Banville’s writing to the dark, menacing atmosphere of a first-class thriller.

IRISH GROCERIES AT MIHC
Bangers, Bacon and Beans, oh my!

We’ve restocked many popular items and added meat pasties and McCambridge soda bread mixes – both regular and gluten-free! The freezer is full of bangers, bacon and breads, even a regular and gluten-free soda bread baking kit! Everything in stock will be available for pickup at MIHC on Fridays between 10 AM – 2 PM.

Join Our Volunteer Portal and Make a Difference at MIHC

Use our online volunteer portal to discover how you can connect with us and make a difference in our community.  There’s something for everyone, from concerts to genealogy research and office work to greeting visitors and giving tours of our magnificent home in old St. Dom’s. Check out the portal and register at volunteer.maineirish.com or email volunteer@maineirish.com to join the team!

NEW EXHIBITION

Imbolc 2024

Fáilte and welcome to the Carrickahowley Gallery’s St. Brigid’s Day exhibition. We are proud to feature the work of Jenny Belton, Eamon Colman, Season Dailey, Mary de Blacam, and Louise Neiland. We hope you enjoy the work of these fine artists.

Rent Our Space

The perfect venue for any occasion!

Host your event in the heart of Portland at the Maine Irish Heritage Center, one of the most magnificent buildings in Maine. It’s the ideal venue for weddings, music, theater productions, film screenings, workshops, business meetings, club gatherings, lectures, luncheons, parties, reunions, funerals, and life celebrations.

On-Demand Book Talks at MIHC

murky overhead by michael connolly

"Murky Overhead"

Enjoy the official launch of Murky Overhead, the latest book and debut novel from Michael Connolly. Music, special guests, and an engaging lecture about life in Portland Maine in the early 1900s.

murky overhead by michael connolly

"Forgetting Ireland"

Join author Bridget Connelly as she recounts her journey to discover her Connemara family’s roots and uncovers unexpected surprises.

murky overhead by michael connolly

"Old Ireland in Colour"

The Irish lived life in color. Now, you can view the history of Ireland from the mid-1850s through the end of “The Troubles” in stunning detail.

murky overhead by michael connolly

Searching for John Ford

Join author Joseph McBride, and film historian Gerald Peary, for a look at how Ford’s Maine roots shaped his prolific career as arguably the world’s finest film director.

murky overhead by michael connolly

"Women of the Irish Rising: A People's History

Author Michael Hogan writes of the courageous women who were gun runners, cared for the wounded, and even fought in battle themselves during the Easter Rising.  

Fáilte – Welcome!

Discover everything we have to offer as The Hub of All Things Irish in Maine. Enjoy these videos showcasing our organization or head over to our YouTube channel and watch them all.

Genealogy

Home of the Maine Gaeltacht Irish DNA Project.  Download the genealogy form to get started. Learn more…

Celebrations

Our stately, majestic building is the perfect venue for your unforgettable celebration. Learn More

Everything Irish

Irish American Club of Maine, the Claddagh Mhor Pipe Band, the Ancient Order of Hibernians… Learn More

News

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Welcome to the
Maine Irish Heritage Center

Browse around our website or come visit us in person.

Library

Thursdays  10:00 – 2:00

Genealogy Services

Fridays  10:00 – 2:00

Our sincere thanks to our members, donors, business sponsors, grant and foundation supporters.
Special thanks to the Irish government for their investment in the Maine Irish Heritage Center.

The Hub Of All things Irish in Maine