There are no strangers here, only friends who have not met.
Welcome to the House of Ireland, a member of the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages in Balboa Park, San Diego, California. Join us each weekend as we celebrate the rich culture of the Emerald Isle.
Upcoming Events
Irish Storytelling Group
Monday May 4th, 2026 ~ 6:30PM-8:00PM
Taught by Sarah Glazebrook. Do you love a good story — the kind that carries the lilt of laughter, the sting of sorrow, and the magic of Ireland’s old ways? We’re forming an Irish Storytelling Group for those who want to share tales, listen to others, and keep the art of oral tradition alive. Each month, we'll gather to swap stories— folk tales, family memories, history, or your own personal stories. Whether you’ve been telling stories for years or are just curious to start, you’ll find a warm welcome.
Beginning Irish Language
Tuesday May 5th, 2026 ~ 7:00PM-7:55PM
Taught by Shanti Hofshi.An introduction to conversational Irish Gaelic. No previous knowledge of the language is required. The class is free of charge and all materials are provided. This class will be offered over Zoom, so you must have Zoom with a camera to participate in the class.
Beginning Irish Conversation
Tuesday May 5th, 2026 ~ 8:00PM-9:00PM
Taught by Shanti Hofshi.
This session will be focused on basic Irish conversation with supporting grammar and vocabulary as well as understanding spoken and written Irish. Basic knowledge of Irish is assumed (one prior beginning class). The class is free of charge and all materials are provided. This class will be taught over Zoom.
Intermediate Irish Music Session
Thursday May 7th, 2026 ~ 7:00PM-9:30PM
An intermediate music session (recommended for musicians with previous session experience) meets on the first Thursday of each month. There is no official tune book, and tune selection will pass from player to player around the room.
Comhaltas Whistle Club
Saturday May 9th, 2026 ~ 10:00AM-11:00AM
Taught by Quin Herron. Hosted by Comhaltas San Diego. If you’re interested in learning more about the Irish whistle or Irish Traditional Music in general, come check out this informal gathering. Free and open to all ages, donations gratefully accepted.
Cottage Open - Saturday Hosting
Saturday May 9th, 2026 ~ 11:00AM-4:00PM
Stop in on Saturday for one of our free drop-in classes, or just to experience a little corner of Ireland!
Irish Knitting Class
Saturday May 9th, 2026 ~ 12:00PM-3:00PM
Taught by Erin Ratelle. Classes are free. Advanced knitters will be on hand with demonstration materials to teach beginning techniques, but knitters of all levels are also encouraged to bring their own projects. Our resident "knit-wits" look forward to seeing you and sharing the joy of Irish Knitting!
Comhaltas Tune Learning Session
Sunday May 10th, 2026 ~ 9:30AM-10:30AM
Taught by Judy Carlstrom. Hosted by Comhaltas San Diego. If you've ever been interested in playing at an Irish music session, this is the place to start. Tunes are taught at a slow pace and sheet music is provided. Prior experience with your instrument is a must. For more information contact comhaltas.sandiego@gmail.com.
All-Level Irish Music Session
Sunday May 10th, 2026 ~ 10:30AM-12:00PM
Every Sunday morning, there is an open Irish music session at the House of Ireland in Balboa Park. Players of all levels are welcome to participate. Players must bring their own instruments.
Cottage Open - Sunday Hosting
Sunday May 10th, 2026 ~ 11:00AM-4:00PM
Experience a bit of Irish hospitality. Stop in for a cup of Irish tea and a slice of soda bread while enjoying traditional Irish music and dance or joining in for some classic Irish songs.