This March, AARP Illinois is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with two special events that highlight the richness of Irish culture and the powerful stories that connect communities across time and place. Whether you love live music, history, storytelling—or all three—there’s something here to enjoy, learn from, and share.
Experience an Irish‑Inspired Musical Fusion with Classical Blast
Our first event brings you the unforgettable sound of Classical Blast, a band known for pushing musical boundaries in the most delightful ways. Their Irish‑inspired “Irish Fling” concert blends well‑known classical melodies with classic rock hits, weaving in unexpected harmonies, original lyrics, and bold modern twists.
From Bach to metal to iconic rock anthems, Classical Blast creates a genre‑bending musical experience that bridges past and present. Their performances are energetic, creative, and full of surprises—perfect for kicking off St. Patrick’s Day with a burst of joy and artistry.
Register for the virtual event: https://events.aarp.org/IrishFling2026
Date: March 17
Time: 1 p.m. CT
Discover the Story of Los San Patricios: A Virtual Journey Into Courage and Identity
The second St. Patrick’s Day event takes us from music to history as we explore the remarkable story of Los San Patricios, a battalion of immigrants—many of them Irish—who joined Mexico during the U.S.–Mexican War of 1846–1848.
Their journey is one of conviction, cultural identity, and a search for dignity at a time of deep conflict. Often overlooked in mainstream history, Los San Patricios have become a symbol of solidarity between Irish and Mexican communities and a powerful reminder of the complex human stories behind wartime decisions.
During this virtual program, you’ll hear from Juan Díes of the Sones de México Ensemble, Sean Cleland from Irish Music School of Chicago and Alvaro Obregón from AARP Illinois as they bring this chapter of history to life through storytelling, music, and cultural context. Together, they’ll shed light on the motivations, hardships, and enduring legacy of a group whose courage continues to inspire generations.
Register for the virtual event: https://events.aarp.org/event/SanPatricios/register
Date: March 17
Time: 10 a.m. CT
Two Events, One Celebration of Culture
St. Patrick’s Day has always been about more than green decorations and parades—it’s a celebration of heritage, resilience, and the ways communities find connection through art, history, and shared stories. This year, AARP Illinois is proud to honor those themes with events that uplift creativity and deepen cultural understanding.
We hope you’ll join us for one—or both—of these meaningful experiences.
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