The Irish Centre Birmingham is set to welcome hundreds of visitors for a celebration of Irish sport, culture and community this Sunday (August 9), as it hosts a free Sports & Community Open Day packed with family entertainment, live music and the chance to experience some great sports and activities first-hand.
Taking place at the Irish Centre Birmingham and Páirc House Hotel on Sunday 9 August, the event runs from 12 noon until 5pm, with a full afternoon of free activities for all ages before an evening of live music.
Visitors can try their hand at Gaelic football with St Brendan’s GAA, watch and take part in boxing sessions with Pat Benson Boxing Academy, and enjoy Irish dancing performances and interactive sessions with the McCarron School of Irish Dancing.
Families can also enjoy children’s activities, bouncy castles, refreshments, ice cream and an outdoor barbecue, while the Connacht Bar will be serving traditional Sunday roasts throughout the day. Fitzgerald’s Irish Shop will also be open until 5pm, and visitors can find out more about the work of the Birmingham Irish Association and the Birmingham Irish Dementia Centre.
Throughout the afternoon there will also be bowls competitions, delivered in partnership with West Midlands Travel, ensuring there’s entertainment for visitors of every age.
One of the highlights of the afternoon will be a showcase of youth Gaelic football, beginning with a mixed Under-7 Blitz from 12 noon until approximately 1pm. Children from both participating clubs (St Brendan’s and Erin Go Bragh) will be mixed into four teams, creating a fun, inclusive atmosphere with a gentle competitive edge while ensuring every child enjoys plenty of game time.
The action continues from 2.15pm with Under-9 and Under-11 fixtures, with the final schedule to be confirmed once player numbers have been finalised.
The celebrations won’t end there, with an evening of live entertainment beginning from 5pm. JD Banting takes to the stage from 5pm, followed by Connor McGrath from 7pm, providing the perfect soundtrack to round off a fantastic community day.
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.
“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.”
Des Brennan, Chairman of St Brendan’s GAA, said:
“People often think Gaelic football is only for those who grew up playing it, but nothing could be further from the truth. Every year we welcome complete beginners of all ages, and they quickly discover not just a sport, but a brilliant community.
“This open day is the perfect opportunity to come along, have a go, meet our coaches and players, and see what Gaelic games are all about. You might just discover your new favourite sport. Whether you’re five or fifty, everyone is welcome and we’d love to see as many new faces as possible joining in on the day.”
The event is free to attend and organisers are encouraging people from across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands to bring family and friends to enjoy a day celebrating sport, culture and community.
Further attractions and entertainment will be announced in the lead-up to the event via the Irish Centre’s Social Media Channels – https://www.instagram.com/irishcentrebirmingham/
Event Information
Irish Centre Birmingham Sports & Community Open Day
Date: Sunday 9 August 2026
Time: 12 noon – 5pm (followed by live music)
Venue: Irish Centre Birmingham & Páirc House Hotel, 205 Wheelers Lane, Kings Heath, B13 0ST.
Admission: Free
Live Music
- 5pm: JD Banting
- 7pm: Connor McGrath