Irish Fest 2026 Returns to Huntington Beach with Nine Days of Live Music, Irish Food & St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Orange County's biggest St. Patrick's Day festival features two stages, Celtic and rock performances, Irish step dancers, traditional fare, and a Wienerdog Races kickoff - March 8-17 at Old World Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, CA - February 17, 2026--

Guests gather at Irish Fest at Old World Huntington Beach during the annual nine-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration featuring live music, food, and family-friendly festivities.

Old World Huntington Beach is turning green once again as Irish Fest 2026 takes over The Biergarten from March 8 through March 17, 2026. One of Orange County's largest St. Patrick's Day celebrations, the nine-day festival brings together live Celtic and rock music across two stages, Irish step dancers, traditional food and drink, and non-stop entertainment for all ages.

Whether Irish by blood or Irish for the day, guests are invited to eat, drink, dance, and celebrate in true Celtic style across more than 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor festival space.

"Irish Fest has become one of our most beloved traditions," said Cyndie Kasko of Old World Huntington Beach. "It's nine days of incredible music, amazing food, and a place where families and friends can come together and really celebrate. There's nothing else quite like it in Orange County."

Irish Fest Kickoff: Wienerdog Races

The fan-favorite dachshund races return to Old World Village on Sunday, March 8, 2026, marking the first Wienerdog race of the year and the official kickoff to Irish Fest. Expect costumes, cheering crowds, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Live Music & Performances

From toe-tapping Celtic folk to high-energy rock tributes, Irish Fest delivers an unforgettable lineup across two stages:

• Sweet Water Creek Band — Folk, Celtic, and bluegrass vibes. Free admission: March 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 16.
• L.A.vation (U2 Tribute) — A high-energy tribute honoring one of Ireland's most legendary bands. Free admission: March 13.
• The Sleeveens — Authentic, high-spirited Irish rock and traditional sounds. Free admission: March 14 and 15.
• Highland Way — Celtic rock favorites lighting up the stage. March 14 and 15.
• Silk Button Butchers — Genre-blending Irish music with a modern edge. Free admission: March 8–15 and 17.
• Irish Step Dancers from Lyons Academy of Dance — March 8, 14, and 15.

Irish Food, Drink & St. Paddy's Classics

Two kitchens serve festival favorites throughout the celebration, including corned beef and cabbage, Irish bangers, savory stews, and freshly baked soda bread. The drink menu features a wide selection of Irish, German, and Belgian beers, Irish whiskeys, and festive specialty cocktails.

A Festival Venue Built for Celebration

The festival spans over 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, featuring two stages, multiple bars, ample seating, and a true European village atmosphere. All ages are welcome; guests under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Admission & Tickets

FREE entry is available with online pre-registration. Without pre-registration, admission is $10 at the door. Most live music dates offer free admission with pre-registration. Tickets and full schedule information are available at OldWorldHB.com/irishfest.

Plan Your Visit

Where: The Biergarten at Old World Huntington Beach, 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (near the 405 Freeway, Beach Blvd. exit) 

When: March 8-17, 2026

Tickets & Info: OldWorldHB.com/irishfest

Follow Along: Instagram @BiergartenHB and @GermanDeli

Media Opportunities

Old World Huntington Beach welcomes media coverage throughout Irish Fest 2026. The following are available upon request:

• Complimentary press passes and VIP access for credentialed media
• Interviews with ownership, band members, and festival organizers
• High-resolution photos and video b-roll from past festivals and 2026 preview imagery
• Behind-the-scenes and preview access for on-site segments or advance features

For on-site coverage, we recommend Saturday, March 14 or Sunday, March 15 for the fullest festival atmosphere with multiple bands and Irish step dancers across two stages. The Wienerdog Races on March 8 are ideal for photo and video coverage.

To request credentials or assets, contact Cyndie Kasko at cyndie@oldworldhb.com or 714-240-9662.

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Live music performances take place daily during Irish Fest at Old World Huntington Beach, featuring a lineup of Celtic and Irish-inspired bands.