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A new Irish tradition takes root on Bainbridge Island

Published 6:00 pm Sunday, March 1, 2026

New non-profit brings Irish culture, music and community connection to Bainbridge Island

Last summer, something special happened on Bainbridge Island. A sold-out Irish Evening filled the theater, spilled into post-event gatherings, and left people wanting more. The energy was unmistakable – laughter, music, storytelling and a sense of connection that felt increasingly rare.

That momentum is now shaping the next chapter of Irish cultural celebration on the island.

This March, community leaders and cultural advocates are officially launching the Bainbridge Island Irish Club, a new non-profit dedicated to celebrating Irish heritage, connection and lighthearted fun. 

The club’s founding will be celebrated on St. Patrick’s Day at Celtic Crossroads. “We really wanted to create a new opportunity to bring people together through culture, music and shared experiences,” says Eileen O’Grady, an event organizer and a founding member of the BI Irish Club. 

The Irish Club’s steering committee reflects the diversity and creativity of Bainbridge Island, bringing together artists, business owners, philanthropists and longtime community contributors with strong Irish roots who treasure the Irish traditions of people setting aside daily worries and reconnecting with one another.

That philosophy carries directly into the club’s first major outdoor event – Irish Games Day, taking place Sunday, April 12, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Bainbridge Island High School stadium field.

At the heart of Irish Games Day is Irish Road Bowling, a centuries-old tradition of  friendly competition.. Originating in Ireland, the game challenges participants to roll a solid ball as far as possible in the fewest throws. For the club’s  inaugural event, the format has been adapted into a relay-style activity on the track, making it accessible for first-timers and families alike.

“This isn’t about being serious or too competitive,” O’Grady says,  “At least not in our first year. It’s about doing something new, being outside and families having fun together.”

Irish Games Day is designed as an all-ages, family-friendly event, with children and adults teaming up, local fire and police departments being invited, Irish music setting the mood and playful “leprechaun dollars” adding a touch of “wagering whimsy” for spectators. Refreshments and Irish treats will be available, with a post-event gathering planned at a nearby pub.

Looking ahead, the club’s founding members hope to grow Road Bowling into an annual tradition, with future inter-island competitions, along with expanded club event programming throughout the year starting with St Patricks celebrations throughout the month of March. 

The source for all things Irish on the island is celticcrossroadsnw.com. You’ll learn about the BI Irish Club, view its membership eligibility, and calendar of events for Saint Patrick’s month and beyond. Registration for the Road Bowling event opens on March 8.

READ MORE:  Irish documentary screening and cultural celebration comes to Bainbridge Island Aug. 14