The U.S. Congress designated March as Irish-American Heritage Month in 1991 and the president issues a proclamation commemorating the occasion each year.
Originally a religious holiday to honor St. Patrick who introduced Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a celebration of all things Irish. The world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762, in New York City, featuring Irish soldiers who served in the English military. This parade became an annual event, with President Harry S. Truman attending in 1948. The following facts are made possible by the invaluable responses to U.S. Census Bureau surveys. We appreciate the public’s cooperation as we continuously measure America’s people, places and economy.
Did You Know?
The number and percentage of U.S. residents who claimed Irish ancestry in 2023.
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The number of foreign-born U.S. residents who reported Ireland as their birthplace in 2023.
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The number of people living in Cook County, Illinois — the nation’s county with the largest Irish American population — who claimed Irish ancestry in 2023.
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More Stats
For more information about the Irish-American population, check out this Selected Population Profile from the 2023 American Community Survey 1-year estimates. Statistics include:
- Sex and age.
- Marital status.
- Educational attainment.
- Veteran status.
- Employment status.
- Occupation.
- Commuting.
- Housing.
- Income.
Related News Products
Past Facts for Features
- Irish-American Heritage Month and St. Patrick’s Day: March 2024
- Irish-American Heritage Month and St. Patrick’s Day: March 2023
- Irish-American Heritage Month and St. Patrick’s Day: March 2022
- Irish-American Heritage Month and St. Patrick’s Day: March 2021
Briefs
Graphics
- Celebrating Irish-American Heritage Month (2024)
- Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day (2023)
- Irish-Sounding Places in the United States (2023)
- Where Irish Eyes Are Smiling in the United States (2023)
- Where Irish Eyes Are Smiling in America (2020)
Related Information
- South Bend, Indiana (Home of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish) (2023)
- Trade in Goods With Ireland (2023)
- People Reporting Ancestry by State (2023)
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