St. Patrick’s Day Commemoration of An Gorta Mór at the Irish Memorial
Each year on St. Patrick’s Day, we gather at the Irish Memorial at 109 Spruce Street in Philadelphia to remember one of the most defining chapters in Irish history — An Gorta Mór, the Great Hunger. This solemn and meaningful commemoration honors the millions who suffered, emigrated, and perished during the famine, while also recognizing the resilience of the Irish people and the lasting contributions of Irish immigrants to the United States.
This year’s program will begin with music and dance between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM, featuring the stirring sounds of the Emerald Pipe Band and a special performance by the McDade Cara School of Dance.
The formal program will begin at 11:00 AM, with Irish Memorial Board Member and FOX 29’s Kathy Orr serving as Master of Ceremonies. The ceremony will include the singing of the Irish and American anthems by Theresa Flanagan Murtagh and Tim Kelly, helping to mark the occasion with the dignity and reverence it deserves.
As part of the tradition, we will also hold our annual shamrock planting, a symbolic act of remembrance that honors the memory of those who endured the famine and celebrates the enduring spirit of the Irish diaspora.
The Irish Memorial stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our forebears and the journey of Irish immigrants who came to America seeking hope and opportunity. Their courage and perseverance helped shape the fabric of our nation.
We warmly invite the community to join us for this important St. Patrick’s Day commemoration.
Please help spread the word, and we hope to see you there as we gather to remember, reflect, and honor the legacy of the Irish in America.
