Irish in Vancouver

While contemporary Vancouver is more noted for absorbing immigrants from around the world, particularly Asia, the city still attracts many Irish nationals, many of whom arrive initially on the IEC working holiday program.

Attracted by a buoyant and growing economy, mild climate, and excellent quality of life, the Irish in Vancouver have successfully integrated with Canadians and migrants from other lands while remaining true to their roots by forming many diverse organisations and associations.

The Irish in Vancouver form a welcoming community. We have compiled a short list of useful links and contacts for Irish people residing in Vancouver. Other links relevant to the whole of Canada can be found in our article Moving from Ireland.

A special thank you to Eilis and Leanne from the Irish Women’s Network of BC for their recommendations on this page.

Irish in Vancouver — Useful links

Ireland Canada Chamber of Commerce – Vancouver

The ICCCVan was created to promote, connect, and support Irish professionals and business owners in Vancouver. Through its events and networks, Irish professionals of all levels can grow their networks and seek the support of fellow members. Moving2Canada founder and Managing Director, Ruairi Spillane serves as Director of Community on the board of the chamber.

Irish and new in Vancouver

From accommodation and items for sale, to events and general camaraderie, this Facebook group is the go-to place for new and not-so-new Irish people in Vancouver.

The Irish Sporting and Social Club (ISSC)

Formed in 1974 to bring the local Irish community together socially and to promote the games of Gaelic football, hurling and camogie. The club is a blend of Irish immigrants, second-generation Irish descendants, Canadians and other nationalities. The ISSC continues to promote and support Irish cultural and sporting events in Greater Vancouver, and is always welcoming new members.

The Irish Women’s Network of BC

Provides women of Irish descent with opportunities for conversation, networking, and mutual support by coordinating events and by connecting women in BC through email, Facebook and Twitter.  The IWN also coordinates events for newcomers and the annual seniors’ lunch.

The Celtic Connection

A monthly newspaper for the Irish community in Western Canada. Published in Vancouver, it has a strong focus on issues relating to the Irish in Vancouver.

Irish in Vancouver

Designed to serve as a portal to other sites, this site also contains a list of organisations and interest groups in Metro Vancouver.  See also their Facebook page.

The Celtic Treasure Chest

For those of you missing Cadbury’s chocolate, Barry’s or Lyons tea, and Tayto crisps.

Vancouver Irish Céilí Society

Hosts traditional communal Irish dancing evenings.

Traditional Irish music

If you’re longing for some drop-in sessions, there are plenty around town. Everyone welcome!

Sunday: Johnnie Fox’s Pub on Granville St. Starts at 6.30 p.m.
Sunday: Wolf and Hound, 3617 West Broadway, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Renewing or replacing your Irish passport

If you need to renew your Irish passport while in Canada, the Department of Foreign Affairs now enables you can do so through its online system.

If you do not fit the criteria for the online passport system, you can get a form (either in person or by mail) from the Consulate General of Ireland in Vancouver, which opened in October, 2018.

Please consult the DFA website here if you have passport questions.

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