Chicago Hooley 2026 is set to energize the Windy City January 23rd -25th with a full slate of Irish music and social dance. This exciting collaboration between Chicago Gaelic Park and the Irish American Heritage Center promises a weekend of top entertainment and welcoming community!
Learn from a Dance Legend
The weekend features a rare stateside chance to learn from the leading figure in the Irish social dance world. Gerard Butler, a nine-time All-Ireland Dance Champion who hails from County Roscommon, will lead country jive workshops and a set dancing workshop. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or an aspiring beginner, this is an instruction opportunity not to be missed.
A Musical Lineup to Remember
The weekend’s music schedule will surely keep your toes tapping. Award-winning performer Stuart Moyles and rising star Clodagh Togher, both from County Mayo, take the stage on Friday at 9 p.m. at Gaelic Park. On Saturday, again at Gaelic Park, Moyles and Togher will be joined by local favorite Declan McShane for an 8 p.m. show. Renowned button accordion player Jack Kinsella, who is from County Offaly and currently living in Chicago, will perform at the Irish American Heritage Center on Sunday evening with Moyles, Togher, and McShane.
For a cozier vibe, head to Gaelic Park’s Carraig Pub, where Evin O’Riordan (Friday) and Gerry Haughey (Saturday) will be performing your favorite Irish tunes. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a pint, a bite to eat, and a singalong. 
Saturday Waltzing Contest
New to the Chicago Hooley this year is a waltzing contest, taking place during Saturday evening’s show at Gaelic Park. Showcase your moves for a chance to win a cash prize and the coveted bragging rights! Hooley organizers encourage everyone to participate-celebrating our shared love for dance in a fun, friendly competition.
Sunday Céilí and Farewell
The weekend wraps up with a rousing mixed céilí at 4 p.m. on Sunday at the Irish American Heritage Center following Butler’s set dance workshop. Moyles, Togher, McShane, and Kinsella will provide the live music. “Irish social and set dancing is all about community,” said event organizer Brendan Houlihan, “The mixed céilí is a beautiful way to end the weekend-coming together and enjoying the music and dance as one Irish cultural community.”
Tickets, Travel & Info
Weekend passes are available for $95, with individual event tickets sold separately.
A special hotel rate is available at the DoubleTree by Hilton Alsip, making it easy for out-of-towners to join the festivities.
Reserve your spot today at tickets.chicagogaelicpark.com or irish-american.org. For more information, please contact Chicago Gaelic Park Director Brendan Houlihan 708-280-8753. or email:
Noreen Lennon Hegarty, Chicago Gaelic Park Director
Chicago Hooley 2026 - Crosstown Celebration of Irish Dance & Music 1/23-25
