Lá na Gaeilge: Language Day
The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England holds its 25th annual Lá na Gaeilge (Irish Language Day) on Saturday, May 2, 2026. The event will take place 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 for everyone to take part in Irish language learning. 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, raffle, and a lecture by Fulbright FLTA Michaela Burke. The event concludes with music session.
Cost
$50 per person / $45 for ICC Patrons / $15 for students aged 21 and under. Includes lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
Registrations are due by 5 pm on May 1 (if submitting online). To register:
• Register and pay online (service fee will apply) >
Or
• Download and mail in a registration form with payment >
(mail in registrations must be received by April 27)
Clár an Lae (Program)
• 8:30 am – Clárú (Registration)
• 9:00 am – Fáiltiú (Welcome)
• 9:15 am – Rang 1 (Class 1)
• 10:30 am – Sos Tae (Tea Break)
• 11:00 am – Rang 2 (Class 2)
• 12:00 pm – Lón (Lunch) agus Crannchur (Raffle)
• 1:00 pm – Rogha Ceardlann (Choice of Workshop)
– 1. Cluichí Gaelacha (Gaelic Games)
– 2. Feadóg Stáin (Tin Whistle)
– 3. Cluichí Teanga (Language Games)
• 2:00 pm – Léacht (Lecture): ‘Pleanáil Teanga in Éirinn – Language Planning in Ireland’ by Fulbright FLTA Michaela Burke
• 3:00 pm – Seisiún Ceoil (Music session) Bring your instruments and your voices!
Visit the Elms College website for information on parking. The program will be held in Berchmans Hall.
Attendees will receive a free drink ticket to use at the Irish Cultural Center’s Bealtaine Celebration, which runs through the evening on May 2, held at the ICC in West Springfield, MA.
Questions? Please contact [email protected].
Refunds will be honored only if the applicant is unable to attend due to late unforeseen circumstances. Please write to [email protected] with an explanation by May 1 and the request will be reviewed shortly after.