The mission of the Irish Cultural Center is to provide a link between the people of Arizona and the people of Ireland and other Celtic cultures. The Irish Cultural Center (ICC) and McClelland Library grew out of a cooperative public and private partnership between the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department; the Arizona Department of Transportation; a Sister City relationship with Ennis, C
o. Clare, Ireland; and the Irish Cultural and Learning Foundation, a local non-profit coalition of affiliated Irish and Celtic organizations. Our programs, classes, festivals, exhibits, and special events all incorporate Irish culture via history, music, dance, art, literature, drama, crafts, travel, language, sports, and other traditional activities. The primary goal is to provide the community with the highest quality educational and cultural programming. THE IRISH CULTURAL CENTER
The Irish Cultural Center’s property features several unique structures. Our traditional Irish Cottage is modelled after a rural farmhouse cottage in Bunratty, Co. Clare and houses Irish furnishings and a peat burning fireplace. The Great Hall (An Halla Mór) is a multi-purpose space that serves as the events and entertainment center for the ICC. The Hall is available to the general public as a rental for events and weddings. An Halla Mór has been the venue for many ceilis, dance lessons, business meetings, workshops and presentations as well as personal celebrations. It is the home of many local traditional and folk dancers, clubs, and networks. THE MCCLELLAND LIBRARY
The McClelland Library is a three story building resembling a traditional 12th century castle from the Emerald Isle. The first floor contains the main collection of Irish books, magazines, and newspapers covering Irish literature, history, politics, and biographies. Reading and periodicals rooms accommodate researchers and students of Irish history. There is also a children’s literature collection and activity area. The second floor holds the Frances B. McClelland Genealogy Research Centre with reference books and research assistance for identifying and discovering information about your ancestors. Computers are available for research purposes. There is a reference collection covering various topics in Irish studies plus a rare book room, nestled between genealogy and the gallery. The 1000 square foot exhibition space shows historic, artistic and cultural exhibitions. The third floor space, the Castle Keep, is a multi-purpose room for lectures, classes, exhibits, receptions and performances. It also features an outdoor balcony with exquisite views of downtown Phoenix and Camelback Mountain. THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Irish and Celtic Studies is a major component of the Irish Cultural Center. The goal of the Academy is to offer the highest quality educational and cultural programming to the entire community. Classes include music, dance, art, history, literature, drama, crafts, the Gaelic language, a Curragh rowing team, plus many more Celtic and traditional activities and programs.
