Long Grove Irish Days returns with music, pop-up pub, dog contest
The luck of the Irish will land in Long Grove on Labor Day weekend as Irish Days returns for three days of culture, community, and craic.
Taking place Saturday, Aug. 30, through Monday, Sept. 1, this annual festival turns Fountain Square into a lively celebration of all things Irish — with music, dancing, food, contests and family fun. Whether you come for the bagpipes or the beer, Irish Days offers a blend of small-town Americana and Celtic spirit.
Festival hours are 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30; 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31; and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1, in and around Fountain Square, 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Parking and admission are free.
What's new in 2025
This year’s festival features extended hours on both Saturday and Sunday, new evening entertainment, and a pop-up pub: the Lions Club “Fibber MaGee” Pub, serving up spirited pours and local personality.
The live music lineup is stacked with fan favorites, including returning headliner Without U2 (Saturday night) and the high-energy Dirty Wellies (Sunday night). Add to that traditional folk bands, pipe-and-drum performances by the Shannon Rovers, and multiple Irish dance schools taking the stage each day and the weekend is packed with nonstop entertainment. The full event schedule is posted on the website.
Returning favorites
• Best Men’s Legs in a Kilt Contest
Back and bolder than ever, this hilariously charming competition invites brave lads to strut their stuff for bragging rights — and some serious laughs.
• Best Irish Dog contest
Pups parade in themed attire and compete for titles like King, Queen, Prince, and Princess of Irish Dogs. Registration is free on-site.
• Kids’ craft tent
A dedicated space for little ones to get creative while families enjoy the sights and sounds of the fest.
• Mass with Irish music
Start Sunday morning with a beautiful outdoor Catholic Mass accompanied by the voice of Gavin Coyle.
• Live Irish music and dance
Featuring The Tooles, The Dooley Brothers & Jimmy Moore, The Larkin & Moran Brothers, Kathleen Keane & Jim Conway, and more throughout the weekend.
Spend local, sip in style
Shoppers who spend $150 or more (pretax) at any of Long Grove’s local shops or restaurants over the weekend can redeem receipts for a free Irish Days pint glass at the Visitors Center or event booth, available while supplies last.
For details, visit longgrove.org/festivals/irish-days.