Irish Centre Birmingham hosts free Sports & Community Open Day
Irish Centre Birmingham hosts free Sports & Community Open Day

The Irish Centre Birmingham is set to welcome hundreds of visitors this Sunday for a free Sports & Community Open Day, celebrating Irish sport, culture, and community spirit. The event, which takes place at the Irish Centre Birmingham and Páirc House Hotel in Kings Heath, runs from 12 noon to 5pm on 9 August 2026, with live music continuing into the evening.

A day packed with activities for all ages

Attendees can try Gaelic football with St Brendan's GAA, watch and participate in boxing sessions led by Pat Benson Boxing Academy, and enjoy Irish dancing performances and interactive workshops with the McCarron School of Irish Dancing. For younger visitors, there will be children's activities, bouncy castles, refreshments, ice cream, and an outdoor barbecue.

The Connacht Bar will serve traditional Sunday roasts throughout the day, while Fitzgerald's Irish Shop remains open until 5pm. Visitors can also learn about the work of the Birmingham Irish Association and the Birmingham Irish Dementia Centre.

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Sports competitions and youth Gaelic football

Bowls competitions, delivered in partnership with West Midlands Travel, will be on offer throughout the afternoon, ensuring entertainment for every age group. A highlight of the day will be a youth Gaelic football display, starting with a mixed Under-7 Blitz from 12 noon until approximately 1pm.

Live music and community spirit

Live music begins at 5pm with JD Banting, followed by Connor McGrath at 7pm, providing the perfect soundtrack to conclude the community occasion. Catherine Robinson, General Manager of the Irish Centre Birmingham, said: "The Irish Centre has always been much more than a venue, it's a place where people come together, friendships are made and communities thrive. This open day is about opening our doors to everyone and showing just how much is happening here every week."

She added: "Whether you have Irish roots, are completely new to the Centre, or you're simply looking for a fantastic free family day out during the summer holidays, we'd love to welcome you. There really is something for everyone, and we're looking forward to seeing familiar faces alongside plenty of new ones."

Event details at a glance

The Irish Centre Birmingham reopened in Kings Heath last November after leaving its Digbeth home in 2020. The open day is free to attend, with admission at 205 Wheelers Lane, Kings Heath, B13 0ST. The event is part of the Centre's ongoing efforts to engage with the local community and showcase its facilities and activities.

For those interested in Irish culture, sports, or simply a fun family day out, this open day offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Irish Centre Birmingham.

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