Lá na Gaeilge: Language Day

The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England will hold its 22nd annual Lá na Gaeilge (Irish Language Day) on Saturday, May 6, 2023. The event will be held in person once again in Berchmans Hall at Elms College in Chicopee, MA. It is an opportunity for those with an interest in this ancient language, which is now enjoying a resurgence, to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of this vital component of Irish culture. 

Lá na Gaeilge is a unique opportunity to encourage and take part in Irish language learning at all levels. The program consists of two classes available at three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

As well as instructional classes, Lá na Gaeilge includes a choice of workshop (set dancing, calligraphy, or language games), and cómhrá (conversation and dialogue at the learner’s appropriate level). 

There will also be a lecture based on the language and folklore of County Louth. This will be given by Emer Maguire, Elms FLTA, with contributions from Ryan Hogan, Gaeláras Mhic Ardghail.

The event concludes with a céilí and a seisiún, with an opportunity for participants to display their musical and dancing talents, and all are encouraged to bring their instruments and voices to participate.

Lá na Gaeilge begins with registration at 8:30 am and concludes at about 5:00 pm. The cost is $50 per person / $45 for ICC Patrons / $15 for students aged 21 and under. The price includes lunch and refreshments throughout the day. 

Registrations are due by May 1. To register: 
• Download and mail in a registration form with payment >
• Register and pay online (service fee will apply) >

Program (Clár an Lae)
8:30 – 9:00 am: Registration (Clárú)
9:00 am: Get Together & Welcome (Dul le Chéile & Fáilte)
9:15 – 10:30 am: Class 1 (Rang 1)
10:30 – 10:45 am: Tea Break (Sos Tae)
10:45 – 11:45 am: Workshop (Ceardlann) – Choose from Set Sancing (Damhsa ar an Seit), Calligraphy (Callagrafaíocht), OR Language Games (Cluichí Teanga)
11:45 am – 12:00 pm: Group Photo (Grianghraf Grúpa)
12:00 – 1:00 pm: Lunch (Lón) & Conversation (Comhrá)
1:00 – 2:15 pm: Class 2 (Rang 2)
2:30 – 3:30 pm: Lecture (Léacht): Language & Folklore in County Louth by Elms College FLTA Emer Maguire, with contributions from Ryan Hogan, MA
3:30 – 4:15 pm: Céilí & Raffle (Crannchur)
4:15 – 5:00 pm: Session (Seisiún Ceoil) – Bring your instrument or party piece!

For further information or if trying to register after May 1, please contact the ICC office at 413-333-4951 or email irishcenterwne@gmail.com.

Visit the Elms College website for information on parking. The program will be held in Berchmans Hall.

Refunds will be honored only if the applicant is unable to attend due to late unforeseen circumstances. Please write to irishcenterwne@gmail.com with an explanation by May 5 and the request will be processed shortly after.