The 2023 Saint Patrick Irish Hooley Provides a Fabulous Time for Attendees and Raises a Record Amount of Money

The 2023 Saint Patrick Irish Hooley was a big hit as a sell-out crowd of more than 400 people, many dressed in green, showed up at The Basilica School of Saint Mary gymnasium this afternoon during a celebration of Irish music, food, drinks, dancing and a silent auction and raffle — and, most importantly, raised a record amount of money for a local charity.

The afternoon featured performances by local Irish musician, Pat Garvey; the Boyle School of Irish Dance; the O’Neill James School of Irish Dance; and the City of Alexandria Pipes and Drums. The afternoon was catered by Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub. and featured traditional Irish fare, including shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, corned beef and cabbage.

Father Edward Hathaway greeted the sold-out crowd with a prayer, and Bishop Michael Burbidge joined us during the afternoon as he smiled and watched and listened to the dancing and lively music.

Organized by the Alexandria Ancient Order of Hibernian (AOH), the event was a fundraiser for Christ House, a program of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Arlington, which provides food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless and clothing to those in need. A $9,000 check — the most ever raised by the Hooley — was presented to Sister Aniliza Juan, Christ House’s volunteer coordinator, on behalf of the Basilica of Saint Mary and AOH. Thank you to all who participated in a great afternoon of fun!