From live music to workshops, here’s what’s happening at the Helsinki Irish Festival on March 14th ☘️
Family-friendly all afternoon, kids can join the fun until 20:00, after which the festival moves into its evening program.
St. Patrick’s Parade
14:00–15:00: St. Patrick’s Day Parade with Irish Wolfhounds
Start: Töölö Sports Hall (Kisahalli carpark)
Finish: Molly Malone’s Irish Bar
Follow the parade along Töölö Bay as we make our way to the festival hub at Molly Malone’s. All dogs welcome to the parade and also to Molly Malones. For smaller kids or people with limited mobility we will have a stop at Oodi (14:30-14:45) where you can join in for the final stretch to Molly Malones.
15:00-21:00 Festival at Molly Malone’s
15:00–19:30 Open Trad Session
Drop in anytime to play a tune, sing a song, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
All ages and abilities welcome. The session flows right up until the evening concert with the Helsinki Harps Folk Group.
15:30-17:30 Workshops (Rotating Sessions)
Each workshop lasts approx. 25 minutes and repeats throughout the afternoon unless stated otherwise.
• Bodhrán Workshop
Hands-on introduction to Ireland’s traditional drum with Helsinki Harps legend Paddy Reynolds.
• Irish-Themed Drawing
Create Irish-inspired artwork with storyboard artist Sean Hogan.
• Celtic Charms for Kids
Join anytime between 15:30–17:30.
Create magical Celtic-style amulets using salt, flour and paint with artist Rosamaría.
• Irish Language Workshop
A fun and gentle introduction to Irish phrases and pronunciation.
• St. Brigid’s Cross Workshop
Make your own traditional St. Brigid’s Cross and learn its cultural meaning.
Kids GAA Activities
Fun Gaelic games using soft balls and portable goals. All experience levels welcome.
17:10-17:30 Irish dance Workshop with Lena Mitina
Did you ever have dreams of being a part of Riverdance? Now’s your chance to take your first steps!
17:00-17:45: Irish Dancing Performance
Experience the energy and rhythm of traditional Irish dance with the Inspiral Dance Company and Rince Revontulet.
17:10-17:30: Irish Dancing Workshop
17:45-18:00: Finnish Soda Bread Championships
Bring your homemade soda bread!
Entries judged live on stage, prize for the winner.
18:00-19:30: Table Quiz
A fun, social quiz with prizes and plenty of laughs for all the family
19:30-21:00: Live Music with the Helsinki Harps Folk Group
High-energy traditional Irish music to close the festival.
21:30-01:30: Dimpker Quartet
22:30-03.30: Meets Diamonds Dj’s
Need even more entertainment? End the night on a high note with amazing tunes.
(Times and events subject to change