Irish Heritage

Irish Language

Over 2,000 years old, the Irish language boasts the oldest living literature in Western Europe. Despite colonial attempts to destroy the language – it is alive and well – and here at Brookdale! Instructors at all levels have earned the Fáinne Óir, and our classes are informal, fun, and stress-free.

Designed for beginners to fluent speakers, students will be divided into groups, each with its own instructor, based on abilities and needs. Groups will interact with one another and participate in joint activities. This format will enhance the objective of keeping Irish available as the living, spoken language at the very heart of Irish culture. Whether you’re looking to dive into the Tain Bo Culaigne or just pick up a few phrases for travel, this program will work for you!

5 or 10 SESSIONS

Winter Mini Series – 5 Sessions

Sec 1: ON CAMPUS, Thursday, January 22 – February 19, 7-8:30pm (for all levels)

Sec 2: ZOOM option (for advanced level students only)

Search Course Code: XIRIL-160, $59

Spring Series- 10 Sessions

Sec 1: ON CAMPUS, Thursday, March 19 – May 21, 7-8:30pm (for all levels)

Sec 2: ZOOM option (for advanced level students only)

Search Course Code: XIRIL-160, $119

What a Life! Irish Biofiction

Explore novels that bring historical figures to life through fiction. We’ll discuss how Irish writers weave real-life events into imaginative stories, blending fact and fiction in unique ways. Readings may include works by Nuala O’Connor, Joseph O’Connor, Maggie O’Farrell, Colum McCann, and Kevin Barry. Please read Miss Emily by Nuala O’Connor for the first session.

Tuesday, February 10, March 3, March 31, 10am-12pm, $69

3 Sessions

Search Course Code: XIRIG-162

The American Revolution and Ireland: Here & There

With 2026 being the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, there will be plenty of attention paid to the American Revolution. This course will look at the role played by Irish figures in America during the Revolutionary War years as well as how the American Revolution impacted late 18th century events in Ireland.

Tuesday, March 10-24, 10:00am – 12pm, $69 (No class March 17)

2 Sessions

Search Course Code: XIRIG-163

Irish Women Writers at The New Yorker

We will look at the lives and careers of four Irish or Irish American women who wrote short stories and essays for one of America’s preeminent magazines. Maeve Brennan, Mary Lavin, Edna O’Brien, and Elizabeth Cullinan were all regular contributors to the magazine in the second half of the century.

Tuesday, February 17, 10am – 12pm, $49

Search Course Code: XIRIG-164

LIVE ZOOM Contemporary Short Stories - The Art of the Glimpse

Storytelling has always been an integral part of Irish culture, offering offer a time-capsule of the country’s passage through time: from epic sagas to reflection on the commonplace joys and sorrows of daily life. Read and discuss stories tracing Ireland’s rich literary tradition, encompassing tales with roots in Irish folklore to today’s post-modern experimental prose.

Monday, April 6 – May 4, 7:15pm – 8:45pm, $85

5 Sessions

Search Course Code: XIRIL-166

Belfast: Memory, Family, and Coming of Age in Troubled Times

Join us for a screening of Belfast (2021), Kenneth Branagh’s Oscar-winning, deeply personal film about a boy growing up during the Troubles in Norther Ireland. With warmth, humor, and striking black-and-white cinematography, the film explores family, community, and resilience. A guided discussion follows, focusing on history, memory, and coming of age.

Monday, April 20, 10am – 12:30pm, $49

Search Course Code: XIRIG-160

Irish Heritage's Annual St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Mighty Craic

Music, History, Dance!

Celebrate the spirit of Ireland with a full day of storytelling, traditions, and song. The Cook College Ramblers return, joined by three of our favorite Irish historians, for a festive program you won’t want to miss.

Featured Talk Include:

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way – Maureen Dunphy Brady
The Life and Times of Lord Edward Fitzgerald – Henry McNally
Bob Dylan & Irish Connections – Patrick McGown

Tap your feet, sing along, and immerse yourself in Irish traditions as the Cook College Ramblers set the tone – then take the floor as we wrap up a guided Siege of Ennis céilí dance – all are encouraged, no experience required!

Monday, March 30, 9:30am – 3pm, $99

Search Course Code: XIRIG-161

Irish Heritage

Irish Heritage

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