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
Intermediate Irish Music Session
Thursday July 2nd, 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 July 4th, 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 July 4th, 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!
Celtic Art Class
Saturday July 4th, 2026 ~ 12:00PM-3:00PM
Topic: "Tea towels and cloth napkins decorated with stars in redwhite and blue"
Taught by Sandra Arevalo. Join us at the House of Ireland for an interactive Celtic Art class.
Comhaltas Tune Learning Session
Sunday July 5th, 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 July 5th, 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 July 5th, 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.
Irish Storytelling Group
Monday July 6th, 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.