Chicago Gaelic Park has received a $5,000 Local Tourism Grant from Visit Chicago Southland to promote Irish Fest which takes place this coming weekend August 21-23, at Chicago Gaelic Park 6119 W. 147th St. Oak Forest.
The $5,000 grant will be used to promote Irish Fest in various publications throughout the midwest.
The Chicago Gaelic Park Irish Fest, said a release, annually draws 15,000 visitors to Oak Forest and the Chicago Southland region.
“Visit Chicago Southland is a great partner of Chicago Gaelic Park’s. We appreciate their support in helping us share our Irish culture and music with the broader community," said Michael Bennett, General Manager of Chicago Gaelic Park.
Visit Chicago Southland distributes up to $51,000 annually to Chicago Southland communities and not-for-profit organizations to promote events designed to draw visitors into the Chicago Southland region for overnight stays.
These visitors contribute substantially to the Chicago Southland economy through stays in regional hotels, dining at local restaurants, shopping, recreational activities, and needed services travelers require, such as gas, oil, and sundry items.
“The Local Tourism Grant program is a way for Visit Chicago Southland to extend its marketing reach,” said Mary Patchin, CDME, President/CEO of Visit Chicago Southland.
“The marketing efforts by our communities – in addition to marketing efforts by Visit Chicago Southland – help us better promote the many meeting facilities, group tour attractions, festivals, sports events and area attractions throughout the Chicago Southland to potential visitors.”
Irish Fest 2026 will take place on Friday, August 21, Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23. Tickets are on sale at ChicagoGaelicPark.com. The event features three days of live music, family fun, cultural demonstrations and workshops, and more.
